Real Estate Information Archive

Is the garage in your Albuquerque home starting to get out of control again? Or maybe it's always been a mess? Whether you plan to sell your home in Albuquerque soon, or you just need a bit more order in you life, organizing your garage can have many benefits.

Here are 5 easy steps to get the job done quickly and painlessly so you can enjoy your garage once again.

1. Plan of Attack

Don't enter alone. And use the buddy system, if for no other reason than you may get overwhelmed and lost in your own sea of debris. Friends, family, and the kids can all lend a hand to get the job done quicker and to help keep you on track. It's easy to get distracted rooting through the objects of your past.

The first goal of any garage organization is to create more floor space, so that's where you should begin as well. Get all the knick-knacks, the holiday decorations, and any other indoor-related storage out of there and into the attic. This area is for outdoor items only. Always keep this objective in mind: it will help you decide what stays and what goes.

2. Divide and Conquer

Give each helper a section to cover. This should help the garage organization run smoother. And don't be clingy. If you haven't used something in over a year, or if you forgot it even existed, it's time to say goodbye. Give your stuff to charities, thrift stores, or maybe even make a trip to the dump. Or, better yet, make a separate pile for a future garage sale, allowing you to reap all the awards of your excavation. (However, don't procrastinate on this chore either. It's easy to say you'll have a garage sale and not follow through so as to keep putting off the inevitable.) Then, divide up the remaining possessions into categories, such as sports items, seasonal décor, gardening tools, car maintenance, etc., to help with the next step.

3. Get Vertical

Once everything is cleaned and categorized, now it's time to rearrange. The best way to store your things is to make use of your vertical space.

• Get a pegboard for your tools.
• Put up some shelves for boxes.
• Heavy-duty hooks are great for shovels and rakes.
• Buy a magnetic strip for stray metal items, such as steel rulers or chisels.
• If you have bikes, skis, or ladders, put them overhead in the rafters (or if you have a drywall ceiling, once again, heavy-duty hooks are great for hanging these heavy-duty items).

4. Compartmentalize

Once you have as much as you can off the floor, it's now time to find additional storage. The easiest answer to this dilemma is a garage organizer.

• A multiple tier shelving unit is great for storing paint or varnishes.
• A cabinetry system for miscellaneous items is always handy.
• Maybe buy several Rubbermaid baskets to hang on the wall to help separate the recycling.
• Buy a crank to roll up that hose.
• Use garbage ties or bungee cords to keep your extension cords in line.
• Whatever the need, investing in some form of garage organizer helps to maintain the floor space you've just created.

5. Don't forget the little things

If you save glass baby-food jars, clear film canisters, or milk cartons (to be cut in half), you'll now be able to store smaller items, such as nails, screws, or tacks. If these small containers aren't see through, they can also be easily labeled with masking tape. Another alternative garage organizer is an inexpensive tackle box to help contain the confusion. But what if it's your bigger items that are getting in the way? What if it's the necessary tools, such as snow blowers, lawn mowers, or edgers creating the clutter? Then consider building an extra shed in the backyard or a lean-to against the outside of the garage in order to produce additional square footage.

Don’t Let It Happen Again

The main thing to keep in mind is never let it get to this point again. If you take these steps, you should be able to keep up with your garage organization in the future. This is not to say that you won't have some occasional maintenance, as in some sweeping, scrubbing, or washing. But by simply taking the time to arrange the space, at least you'll no longer dread entering into it.

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 ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

38 Villa De Paz Road, Corrales, NM 87048

Incredible Corrales casita on cul-de-sac w/amazing views of the Sandias, sunrises & sunsets!! Circle drive, private courtyard , RV PAD, veg garden, dog run, chicken coup, electric awnings, owned solar! Wood beamed ceilings, tile flooring, skylights, REFRIG AIR! Open living room w/lots of natural light, home theatre sys, kiva fireplace & pellet stove! Gorgeous kitchen features beautiful cabinetry, granite, island, Smart hub fridge, gas range. Office/bdr has its own courtyard entrance. Primary suite has patio access, jetted tub, sep shower, dual sink vanity & walk-in closet. 3CG with workshop area plus a bonus heated & cooled storage room w/sink. The Village of Corrales is home to rural living, Bosque trails, acequia paths, shops, restaurants, wineries, art galleries & farmer's market.

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Many people in Albuquerque may find their homes to be a sanctuary, but for some, it can be quite the opposite. Your home could potentially be making you sick in various ways. Here are some of the most common ways your health could be impacted if your own house is the culprit.

Is the Humidity Too High?

When the humidity in your home exceeds 60%, it creates an ideal environment for mold to thrive. High humidity levels can even lead to mold growth behind your walls. It is important to note that mold can have detrimental effects on your health, such as causing chronic sinus conditions and potentially damaging your nervous system.

When a house is too humid, it can attract dust mites, leading to sleep disorders, allergies, and stomach problems. Conversely, if the home is not humid enough, it can cause respiratory irritation. A humidity level below 40% is considered too low.

To maintain proper humidity levels, you can use a humidity monitor and ensure it stays between 40-60%. Running fan vents while cooking or showering and opening windows for ventilation are also effective. If necessary, a dehumidifier can be used.

Excessive Dust

Cleaning your house goes beyond just making it look nice. It is important to keep your home free of dust due to the potential health effects it can have. Dust can contain dust mites, which can be irritating to both the eyes and nasal passages.

Dust mites can compromise the immune system and gradually diminish its strength. Additionally, dust has the ability to accumulate outdoor pollutants, including harmful pesticides and herbicides that pose a threat to our nervous systems.

To reduce dust, vacuum regularly and ensure the vacuum filter is clean. Consider adding a HEPA filter to your HVAC system and avoid wearing shoes indoors. Wash bedding, drapes, and stuffed animals frequently.

Heating and Cooling Systems

HVAC systems can be a source of illness due to the presence of bacteria and mold in the ductwork caused by water accumulation from cooling. These contaminants can lead to coughing, allergies, asthma, and headaches.

To avoid this issue, it is recommended to have air ducts professionally cleaned every few years. Additionally, regular servicing of your heating system will improve its cleanliness and efficiency.

Damp Areas

Damp areas in your home, such as basements and bathrooms, can be detrimental to your health. Mold, mildew, and bacteria can contribute to "sick building syndrome." Any presence of water or condensation in your home increases the risk of mold-related health issues.

To ensure the integrity of your house, inspect the exterior for gaps, leaks, and holes. Confirm that your gutters effectively redirect water away from your home. Regularly examine drains and plumbing fixtures. Additionally, monitor indoor humidity levels as they can indicate condensation problems.

Lack of Ventilation

It is common for people to tightly seal their homes to save on energy bills. However, indoor air tends to be dirtier than outdoor air, making ventilation necessary. Opening windows and doors occasionally when weather permits is one way to achieve this. Additionally, using fan vents while cooking or bathing can help pull air outside. Another option is installing an air-to-air heat exchange for mechanical ventilation.

Toxic Products

The products used in your home may contain indoor pollutants that can stick to surfaces. These pollutants can be found in carpeting, manufactured wood, upholstery, and cleaning supplies. To reduce exposure to toxins, it is important to read labels and be mindful of the products you bring into your home.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

75 Woodland Drive, Tijeras, NM 87059

True Adobe Custom home by Terry Taggert on approximately 5.5 acres with post and beam, 1-2' thick adobe walls, passive solar design. Featuring paid for solar panels, & wood stove to make this home truly energy efficient. Panoramic views from several 'floor to ceiling' windows! Beautiful brick flooring; Chef's kitchen with stainless steel appliances & maple cabinets. Primary suite features walk in closet and updated 3/4 bath. Fenced in dog area. Huge detached garage appx 600 ft. can easily hold three cars also has a workshop area. In addition there is an Another heated and insulated huge garage appx 1225 ft. that makes a perfect Barn for ALL animals and horses, Or perfect for working on cars storing ATVs, etc. With over 5 acres of level land it is perfect for all animals and horses.

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

Many people share the frustration of limited storage space in their homes. According to Forbes, a significant number of buyers are seeking additional storage options to better organize and declutter their living spaces. Garage storage solutions and walk-in pantries are particularly popular choices for effectively organizing and concealing items.

Take a new look at your house

If you're running low on linen space, consider transforming a corner or niche into a closet. With an open mind and fresh outlook, you can reimagine the space to meet your needs.

Pick the right furniture

Better Homes and Gardens recommends a hardworking living area that maximizes space with built-in cabinets for storage and display. Ottomans are a versatile option as they are small, movable, and can serve as a coffee table or extra seating. They also provide hidden storage for remotes, blankets, and other items, helping to declutter your space efficiently.

Grab some Space Saver Bags

Space bags are a practical storage solution for off-season clothes, jackets, and bedding. With the ability to compress items to a fraction of their original size, they are ideal for maximizing storage space. According to Amazon, the jumbo size is more than sufficient for bulky bed linens with pillows, a big winter jacket, or an entire season's worth of wardrobes.

Roll it out

There’s a better use for the space under your bed than dust bunnies. All you need are a few rolling storage tubs to reclaim this square footage for your stuff.

Recycle your coat closet

If you have a coat closet, it would be repurposed for other uses. Add some basic wire shelving, which you can find in tons of sizes and configurations, and now you’ve got a place to store linens, Costco goods, or anything that doesn’t currently have a place to go.

Go above and beyond

To maximize storage space in closets, consider adding an additional shelf at the top. This eliminates the risk of items falling or becoming unbalanced and allows for full utilization of the space up to the ceiling.

Hang from the ceiling

Garage storage is essential. However, if your garage is lacking in space, there is still a solution. SafeRacks are hanging garage storage shelves that can be purchased online or at Costco. These shelves allow you to elevate your belongings, freeing up valuable floor space for your vehicles.

Organize your pots and pans

If you're struggling with limited space and poor organization in your kitchen, it may not be a matter of lacking space altogether. Rather, it could be due to inefficient storage solutions such as oversized, shelf-less cabinets or poorly designed pantry shelves that hinder visibility to the back. Investing in the right organizer can have a transformative effect on your kitchen. Consider checking out specific recommendations, and you'll witness a remarkable improvement in your kitchen's functionality and organization.

DIY yourself a solution

With a vivid imagination and the right tools, you can create storage solutions that meet your needs. Consider incorporating secret compartments in the fireplace trim, pull-out drawers in the banquette, and the under-the-stairs trick to maximize space.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Impeccable, One of a kind custom Rutledge home. From the minute you walk thru the front door, you have realized excellence in craftsmanship and design. From the chef's kitchen, custom cabinetry, travertine tile, granite counters , Bosch appliances, incredible master suite, sunroom and a backyard experience to share with family and friend's, outdoor kitchen, hot tub, view deck with unobstructed views....inground gunite pool with new cover and retractor, and don't forget the wonderful outdoor kitchen, fire pit. Lets make new memories in your new home.

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.

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Clogged drains are common in Albuquerque homes due to various reasons. In bathroom sinks, excessive hair buildup can occur, especially if used for shaving regularly. Kitchen sinks may have greaser buildup or other substances that restrict water flow and eventually lead to complete blockage.

Unclogging a drain line can be done by most people with basic tools and drain cleaner from a grocery store. Alternatively, a professional drain cleaning service can be called to diagnose and solve the problem, albeit at a higher cost. This expense is justified for particularly stubborn clogs.

When faced with a clogged drain, there are three tools you can use. The plunger, a long-standing option, is commonly used. Another option is the drain snake, which requires practice to use effectively. Lastly, you can call for help from a professional.

Using a Plunger

A drain plunger is an essential tool for every home or apartment. It should be kept near the toilet for easy access when dealing with stubborn flushes. A drain plunger functions in two ways: creating suction to pull clogged material towards the drain and applying pressure to push the clogged material down the drain.

Repeatedly pushing and pulling the plunger can manipulate and free the clog, allowing it to continue through the drainage system. However, if there is additional material clinging to the pipe, the clog may return. Common culprits include soap residue, cooking grease, and other solids that cling to the sides of drain lines.

Using a Drain Snake

When dealing with stubborn clogs, a plunger is often effective, but it may not always suffice. In such cases, a drain snake, also known as an auger, can be used. The business end of a drain snake features a coiled and rigid wire that can be used to effectively break through and remove tough clogs.

A drain snake is a tool used to unclog drains. It consists of a long line rolled up inside a drum, which holds several feet of cable. To use it, you insert the business end of the drain snake into the clogged drain and turn a handle to extend the snake down into the drain pipe. When the snake contacts the clogged material, it can be used to punch it loose or bore a hole through it. Combining a drain snake with a plunger can be an effective way to fully clear a clog.

Using the Phone

If all other attempts fail, it is advisable to seek assistance from a licensed Albuquerque plumbing service to address your clogging issues. Plumbers possess the necessary tools and expertise to identify the most effective method for clearing a clogged drain. In some cases, they may need to dismantle certain drain lines to remove the obstruction or replace damaged components that contribute to persistent or severe clogs.

After the plumber fixes the clogging problem, it's crucial to take preventative measures. Understanding the common culprits of clogging is key. For instance, pouring used cooking grease down the kitchen drain can lead to coagulation, pipe buildup, and restricted water flow. The grease coagulates, clings to the drain pipe, and causes other materials to collect and restrict the water flow until a drain exists.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

837 Deming Meadows Drive NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144

One Owner Gem in Northern Meadows, on an oversized lot lined with Pines, fruit trees, lilac bushes, raised garden beds and blackberry bushes, firepit and a covered patio. Home features 4 bedrooms, 3 baths and a loft. Primary suite is split from other bedrooms. New carpet! Roof replaced 7/2023. Light filled kitchen, with ample counter space, cabinets, pantry, all appliances stay, breakfast nook opens to the Family room with a fireplace. Spacious laundry rm /w cabinets, washer/dry stay! 3 car garage, Move in ready home and a must see! Located in a neighborhood with sidewalks, and parks.

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 homeowners are embracing the trend of open concept homes, which provide larger spaces for conversation between multiple rooms. If your home is an open concept design, here are some tips to help decorate your space.

Rugs

The open floor plan is designed to merge multiple rooms into one large area. To create distinct spaces within this layout, rugs are highly beneficial. Area rugs are particularly effective in rooms like the living room or lounge room, as they can help to separate these areas from the kitchen. By using rugs, your space can feel cozy and inviting, while still allowing you to fully enjoy the comfort of your open floor plan.

Choose Like Colors

It's very common for many open floor plans to include a kitchen, dining room, and living room in all one open space. These rooms should have some of the same color characteristics to help bring the room together as one. For example, choosing to use the same color for dining stools and your couch pills can bring them both together. It will allow for a more visually appealing look so that all of your rooms tie together as one major space.

Lighting

When it comes to home design, it's important to consider the vertical spaces as well. By incorporating lighting fixtures, you can effectively break up the rooms in a vertical sense. For example, installing drop down lighting in the kitchen can help define its own space in an open concept design. Similarly, placing a low hanging chandelier over the dining table can create a vertical break up in the rooms of your home. There are various types of light fixtures and arrangements that can be used to achieve this effect. The main purpose of using lighting in this way is to clearly delineate the individual room areas from a vertical perspective.

Incorporate Symmetry

Symmetry is a key decorating concept for open floor plans. It brings order and appeals to the brain's love for order. To achieve this, focus on symmetry with major items and contrast with smaller ones. For example, use two couches on either side of the living room table. When hanging pictures, maintain the same number on each wall. These techniques will give your open concept designs a unique and visually pleasing look.

Focal Points

Every room in your home should be designed around a focal point. This is where people will look at first when they enter the room. Take an open bed and bathroom for example. The lagest piece of furniture in that room is likely the bed, so that would be a focal point. You can then design the rest of the room around the bed, further enhancing the open design concept.

Decorating for an open concept design isn't overly difficult to do if you know the key concepts behind it. The above tips are some of the basics you should know about when working with an open concept home design. These will give you a great starting point with which to mix your own creativity to fabricate a home design that you'll be proud to call your own.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

6412 Kalgan Road NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144

Welcome home to this incredible Kim Brooks beauty! Enter the foyer to see soaring ceilings and a fabulous floorplan (4th bedroom large enough to be used as a living area or bedroom). This beauty features a gas, diamond-plaster kiva fireplace, porcelain tile, wood-laminate floors, and incredible custom finishes including hand skip troweled walls and lighted niches. Gourmet kitchen includes gas range, SS appliances, and a long bar for all your seating needs! Enjoy the natural light pouring in through the skylights, and relax in the oversized master suite complete with en suite showcasing a separate garden tub, dual copper sinks, and tons of closet space. Outdoor space is an oasis on a 1/2 acre complete with mountain views, RV front-to-back drive, gas stub-out, desert landscaping & MORE

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

Thank you so much for the privilege and for allowing me to earn your business. Here are some reasons sellers are attracted to New Mexico’s and Albuquerque’s #1 Top producing broker Sandi Pressley. My Average days on the market are JUST 13 DAY’S! My overall average of list price-to-sales price ratio is 101.25%. There are so many things that separate me from other brokers. I will detail just a few below:

1) I care more about my clients than my commissions. My tireless dedication, integrity, and exceptional customer service distinguish me from all the other Real Estate brokers, which is demonstrated by 51% of my business coming from very satisfied customer referrals!

2) I am the only broker in the history of New Mexico to have been the #1 Top Producing Broker in the number of homes sold and in total sales volume for 37 consecutive years! This means that no other broker is more effective at achieving a successful sale than I am. Plus it proves that I have achieved excellence, consistency, and attention to all the numerous details.

3) I am ranked 8th in the Nation for Coldwell Banker for selling the most homes.

4) My ability to negotiate is second to none. You need this to get the highest possible price for your home and get to a successful closing!

5) 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!

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

7) No one offers more extensive web marketing than I do…. When 95% of all buyers are selecting their home and or agent online, this is critical to achieving a successful sale.

8) No other broker has sold more homes than the Sandi Pressley Team! No other broker has a larger network of buyers that can qualify & buy a home of your caliber and price range.

9) My ability to win the appointment and earn the commitment from potential Buyers is second to none!

10) 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!

11) Your home sale or purchase is too important to entrust to an individual. This is why I have an entire Ninja-trained team from pre-listing/to listing/to closing to handle your transaction with “TLC” all the way to closing and be[1]yond! Our closing team consists of a licensed broker and her assistant working for me for 28+ years. They work 60+ hours a week managing the arduous and critical details to ensure all the many deadlines and contingencies are micro-managed to achieve a successful closing. Without this attention to detail, a contract can fall apart!

12) High Energy, Tireless Drive, Vast Experience, Enthusiasm, and Dedication are essential qualities that I would bring to you as your Broker. I tackle every real estate transaction with experience, perseverance, and hard work, AND you cannot teach experience. I can provide the information and guidance to help you succeed. Hire the SP Team for exceptional service and results you can trust. We will get you to a successful closing.

Please call anytime to discuss further details at 505-980-2999. Thank you again for the opportunity to serve you.

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

6317 PONDEROSA COURT NE, ALBUQUERQUE, NM

This amazing 3 bedroom/3bath Mossman tri-level home has been cared for by the same family for over 20 years. Great Curb Appeal!! Includes 2 primary bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms. Hardwood floors! Large Den downstairs. Big country kitchen with an abundance of cabinets and counter space. 2 car garage with extra storage space. You will have backyard access with a huge inground gunite pool, perfect for summer BBQ's and entertaining with family and friends. Located in the heart of Albuquerque on a very quite nearly .5 acre cul -de -sac lot.

GET YOUR MORNING INSPIRATION WITH THE Sandi Pressley TEAM!

Organizing your garage can be daunting, but with a systematic approach, you can transform it into a clean and functional space. Here are the organizational steps you can follow to declutter and organize your garage:

1. Assess and Declutter:

- Start by assessing the contents of your garage and determine what you want to keep, donate, sell, or throw away.- Sort items into categories such as tools, sports equipment, gardening supplies, seasonal decorations, etc.

2. Set Up Zones:

 - Divide your garage space into zones based on the types of items you have, such as a workshop area, sports gear zone, storage area, etc.- Allocate space according to your needs and the amount of space available.

3. Invest in Storage Solutions:

- Evaluate what storage solutions would work best for each zone in your garage. Considerations may include shelving units, pegboards, cabinets, overhead storage, or wall-mounted racks.

- Purchase the necessary storage equipment to maximize space and keep items organized.

4. Establish a Floor Plan:

- Create a floor plan of your garage, considering the space available and the location of items within each zone.

- This plan will help you visualize and optimize the layout of your garage, making it easier to find and access items whenever needed.

5. Categorize and Label:

- Group similar items within each zone and label storage bins, shelves, or containers accordingly.

- Labeling all storage areas will help you effortlessly locate and return items.

6. Utilize Wall Space:

- Use the walls in your garage to hang tools, equipment, and other items.

- Install pegboards, hooks, or wall-mounted racks to keep frequently used items within easy reach.

7. Optimize Overhead Space:

 - If your garage has high ceilings, consider installing overhead storage racks to keep seasonal or less frequently used items off the floor.

- This will free up extra space below and maximize storage capacity.

One thing is for sure, there will always be clothes to wash! Our washer and dryer sure do get a workout and keeping them in top working order is a must. Did you know that you should clean your washing machine once a month?  This not only ensures that the machine itself will last as long as it should, it also ensures that your clothes will be as clean as possible.

It may seem counterintuitive to have to ‘clean your washer’, but over time as the washer itself is cleaning clothes of gunk and grime, that dirt is also building up within the washer along with detergent residue. Your unit can also build up mold and mildew due to the moist and humid temperatures associated with cleaning and often time the room they are housed. This can lead to odors in the machine and ultimately, on your clothes.

So let’s dig in and talk the steps necessary to clean your washing machine properly. If that’s the case, the process is super simple as the washer does all the work. Just follow the instructions from the company.

If you do not have a clean cycle, you’ll want to do the following:

1. Identify the top of washing machine you have. A HE Front & Top Loader will require one approach, while a Non-HE machine requires something slightly different.
2. Decide on the type of cleaner you will use: White vinegar, bleach, or a commercial cleaner. If you’re looking for a non-toxic cleaner, white vinegar will be your choice. Some manufacturers, however, will recommend using a bleach or commercial cleaner, so it is important to check your guide books. You’ll also want to check your guide books for recommended amounts of cleaner to use. **Never mix cleaning solutions! You’ll use one of the solutions and only one.

Steps to cleaning a HE Top or Front Loading machine:

        1.  Choose the “clean” cycle. If your machine doesn’t have this, select the hottest water setting. In some cases, this may be the setting for whites or heavily stained clothes

1. 2. Choose the added rinse cycle if it’s available.
   
   3. Fill the bleach dispenser with your cleanser choice.
   
   4. Fill the tub to the highest level (this will probably be automatic with the clean cycle) and run the machine.
   
   5. If you don’t have a second rinse cycle, run the rinse cycle again manually.

Once you’ve finished the clean cycle, you’re then going use a vinegar dipped cloth to wipe down & thoroughly clean the gasket that seals the door (mildew & mold loves to creep in here), the drum, soap dispensers, and the entire outside of the machine.

Doing a weekly wipe down of your washing machine will also help prevent excess buildup and keep your clothes looking and smelling much cleaner, and again preserving the longevity of your machine.

For more homeowner tips, real estate information, and community highlights, be sure to check our blog frequently and visit our Facebook page.

HOT LISTING OF THE WEEK!

1 SKY MOUNTAIN ROAD, PLACITAS, NM 87043

Welcome home to this architectural gem nestled in peaceful Placitas. With natural light pouring in, you will notice the timeless details of gorgeous beamed ceilings, stamped concrete floors, antique vanities, and stunning antique, solid-wood doors throughout this exquisite property. Featuring SIX kiva fireplaces throughout, and radiant heat floors, you will surely stay cozy yearound. The kitchen showcases abundant storage, oversized pantry, and butcher block counters and is open to the dining room to make entertaining a breeze. Enjoy coffee in the heated sunroom while taking in the panoramic views of the Sandias. Master Suite is enormous, and also features striking views, a beautiful en suite and unbelievable closet full of storage solutions.

GET YOUR MORNING INSPIRATION WITH THE Sandi Pressley TEAM!

Kitchen remodels are a costly yet popular project among Albuquerque homeowners. With the ongoing pandemic forcing people to spend more time at home, many are considering remodeling their kitchens. To save money, some homeowners opt for the IKEA kitchen route. While it can save thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars, it's important to know certain things about an IKEA kitchen before making a decision.

Designing an IKEA Kitchen

Designing an IKEA kitchen can be challenging, especially if you don't live near a store location. Fortunately, there is an online planning tool available for those who plan to get their kitchen shipped. While going to a store location can simplify the process and help you avoid potential mistakes, the online planning tool can be a helpful alternative.

An IKEA kitchen is designed to be budget-friendly and easy to assemble, much like their furniture. The items are packed and shipped in a way that allows for self-assembly without the need for a contractor. When planning and using the design planner, it is crucial to remember to measure accurately and double-check your measurements.

When planning your kitchen layout, it is important to consider the location of outlets, window openings, and door swings. These factors will impact the placement of appliances and cabinets. After taking measurements, you can then begin to plan out the zones of your kitchen and how everything will flow. Proper planning will ensure a functional and efficient kitchen space.

Are the Cabinets High-Quality?

Custom cabinets can be very expensive, but IKEA cabinets offer a more affordable option. However, it's important to note that IKEA cabinets are made from particleboard and covered in laminate, which may not be preferred by those who prefer solid wood.

Additionally, since IKEA cabinets don't come in custom sizes, a filler piece may be necessary for odd spaces. The 3D planner tool offered by IKEA is a helpful tool for planning your kitchen, as it allows you to visualize how the puzzle pieces of your cabinets will fit together.

When it comes to cabinets, there are a variety of features available to enhance their functionality. Internal organizers can be added to help with organization, while drawer dampeners offer a soft close. Base cabinets are located beneath the counter and come in two depths, with the standard depth being 24 inches. Wall cabinets are installed above the countertops and typically have a depth of 15 inches.

If you want additional storage, which is somewhat like a free-standing pantry, there are tall cabinets. They sit on the floor and are available in two heights—80 or 90 inches.

You can decide between exposed legs and toe kicks for your base cabinets.

What About the Countertop?

While IKEA does offer countertops, it's important to note that their options are limited to laminate or veneer. If you're looking for a wider variety of materials or styles, it may be beneficial to explore other retailers.

Putting it Together

When your IKEA kitchen arrives, you will need to assemble the different pieces and components yourself or hire a contractor. It is recommended that you have your kitchen delivered instead of picking it up. If you have a larger kitchen, you may receive more than 100 boxes.

It is crucial to correctly install all components of your IKEA kitchen to ensure its durability and quality. Proper installation requires putting everything together accurately. If you lack the necessary skills, it is advisable to seek assistance to avoid any mistakes.

If you have an unusual kitchen layout and don't intend to remodel it, your options for an IKEA kitchen may be limited. This is because IKEA kitchens are modular and not easily customizable. The best option for an IKEA kitchen is a straight-line layout.

Whether or not an IKEA kitchen is worth the cost savings depends on your preferences, the layout of your kitchen, how handy you are, and what your budget is.

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