Real Estate Information Archive

Buying a home is a complex process that requires careful preparation. Months before you begin your search, take steps to get ready. This article outlines the key steps for successfully purchasing your dream home in Albuquerque. Starting early and planning thoroughly are essential keys to success.

First step in buying a house: pre-approval

Before purchasing a home in Albuquerque, you should get pre-approved for a mortgage. Pre-approval reveals your maximum affordable price range based on factors like your debt-to-income ratio, annual income, and credit score. Lenders usually require a minimum credit score of 620 for mortgage approval. If your credit score is below 620, it's best to wait, improve your credit, and get pre-approved later when you are in a better financial position to buy a home.

A lender will also ask for two years of W-2s to review your net income history, which is a key factor in mortgage approval. Additionally, avoid taking out large loans or closing bank accounts right before applying, as that may hurt your chances of getting approved. Once the lender has reviewed your income, debts, and assets, they can provide a pre-approval letter.

To find a lender, you have a few options: you can do some quick online research to find options, go to your own bank since they already know you well, or ask a local Albuquerque real estate agent for a recommendation, as they often have connections with lenders. Once you have contacted a lender, you can move on to the next step in the home buying process.

Choosing the right real estate agent

When finding the ideal home for sale in Albuquerque, choosing an experienced real estate agent like Sandi Pressley is crucial for making the process easier. Sandi and her team will guide you through the entire process, from finding a home to moving in. You can count on the Sandi Pressley team to make buying your first home a complete success. You can check out what all of her happy clients have said about working with the team.

When your offer gets accepted

Once your offer is accepted, you must make a good-faith deposit, separate from the down payment you provide to your lender. If this is your first time purchasing a home, consult with your lender about a Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan, which allows you to finance a home with a down payment of just 1% to 3% of the purchase price after making the good-faith deposit.

Getting an inspection before closing is typically the next step in the home buying process, and most lenders require one.

Making it to the settlement

Once your offer is accepted, inspections and mortgage approvals will begin. Expect 40+ days for inspections, loan processing, and setting a closing date. This can be stressful, but an experienced agent and lender can make the process go more smoothly. Follow their guidance closely to ensure you can move into your dream home without issues.

If you want to learn more about how The Sandi Pressley Team can help make your home buyind dream a reality, contact us today!

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

2316 Agua Fria Drive NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144

Discover the perfect place to call home! You will be immediately greeted by the Sandia Mountains with picturesque views out of the office, living, kitchen, dining room and primary bdrm. This home has unobstructed views, an attached studio Casita equipped with: a full kitchen, 3/4 bath and ample closet space, perfect for a mother-in-law, Airbnb or rental and has a private entrance. The main home has 3 bd, 4 baths. 1 office is fully furnished with a custom wrap-around desk and a separate wine room or 2nd office. In 2014 the home was fully renovated; new roof, stucco, HVAC and the added sf of the casita. This home also has PAID SOLAR! There is a huge rooftop patio with gorgeous views, great for entertaining!!

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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! Check out our open house on 5300 Beebe Street NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111! These outstanding properties have just hit the market, so make sure you check them out before they sell.

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

Wonderful brick home,, on an amazing corner lot, with backyard access, rv pad, brand new Water Heater, newer Hi Efficiency furnace, roof in 2020. Newer windows, sola tube, security wrought iron, new new faucets, toilets. 2 living areas, views, minutes to shopping restaurants.

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1526 Vassar Drive NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106

Welcome home to this precious house in the heart of the UNM corridor! Charming wood floors lead the way to the open living room plus light and bright kitchen featuring eat-in space and gas range. Featuring FOUR Bedrooms, this one has room for everything. 4th Bedroom also showcases a separate outdoor entrance for potential Air BnB use. Newer TPO Roof (2020) and Electrical Panel Upgrade (2021)...plus a HUGE yard situated on almost 1/4 acre ready for your ideas and projects. Enjoy the convenience of both an attached garage and a U-shaped driveway all while being close to UNM, Green Jeans and the new Whole Foods. Come see this today!

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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.

Just listed! Our lates HOT Albuquerque properties offer tons of features for the price. Both are located in great communites that feature a great variety of ammenties including trails, shops, shopping & restaurants!

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

Beautiful Home located in the highly desirable gated community of Sara's Meadow! Featuring a bright & open floorplan, cozy fireplace in great room that opens to the adjoining breakfast nook & kitchen with double sliding doors & picture window providing abundant natural light. All kitchen appliances, washer & dryer convey! Primary Suite suite offers a separate slider door for backyard access; ensuite with soaking tub/shower combo & ample walk-in closet. Separate living area can be used for hobbies, exercise space, TV room, etc. Second bedroom has its own walk out patio. Ceramic tile thru-out except bedrooms, raised ceilings, custom window coverings, & more. Wagner heating & cooling system & water heater approximately 2 yrs old. Low maintenance yards. Close to trails, shops, & restaurants!

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2109 Palenque Drive SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124

Lots of entertaining spaces in this beautiful 4BDR/3BA/3CG home! Open floor plan features a large living room with wet bar, cabinets & wine rack, formal dining room plus a huge loft/recreation room! One bedroom or office on the main level! Huge primary suite with room for sitting area, large walk-in closet, dual sink vanity, garden tub & separate shower! Spacious kitchen features lots of cabinets, large island, breakfast bar & nook with bay windows. Outdoor living space with pergola to relax, unwind and entertain family & friends. In the heart of Rio Rancho, excellent location close to parks, schools, shopping, Intel, Presbyterian Rust Medical Center, Cottonwood Mall!!

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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.

Few experiences match the stress of moving houses. Packing up a lifetime of belongings and adapting to a new living space can overwhelm even the most organized person.

According to the US Census Bureau, 8.4 percent of Americans moved in 2021. Though this rate represents a slight decline from previous years, it confirms that a considerable number of people relocate annually. For most movers, the transition process proves extremely challenging.

However, strategic decluttering before a move can ease the transition and restore order more quickly. This is easier said than done, as research by Maid Brigade indicates Americans already devote 300 hours per year to home cleaning. Faced with decluttering, the job of sorting through belongings and cleaning is bound to get messy before it gets better.

To help you out with all this, here are a few tips for decluttering effectively before moving houses in Albuquerque and beyond.

#1 Start Early, Plan Strategically

To avoid last-minute stress when moving, begin decluttering well in advance. Break the process into manageable tasks on a realistic timeline, starting early enough to thoughtfully assess belongings and decide what to keep, donate, or discard.

Start by decluttering the rooms or spaces in your home that tend to accumulate the most clutter, like attics, basements, and closets. These often neglected areas harbor forgotten items that can either be repurposed or discarded.

As you walk through each room, make two lists: one of essential items for your new home and another of items you no longer need. This strategic sorting will set the stage for an efficient, organized move.

#2 Embrace the KonMari Method

The KonMari Method, popularized by organizing consultant Marie Kondo, advises keeping only possessions that bring joy. When decluttering, hold each item and evaluate your feelings about it. If something no longer sparks joy or has a useful purpose, consider letting it go.

The KonMari Method focuses on the emotional attachment we have to our possessions. By only keeping belongings that spark joy, this minimalist approach helps create living spaces that feel uncluttered and uplifting. Using the KonMari Method can be transformational, empowering people to declutter their homes and welcome more positivity into their lives.

Homes & Gardens recommends involving the whole family when decluttering using the KonMari Method so that everyone feels heard and valued; otherwise, the process will fail to achieve its intended purpose.

#3 Donate and Recycle Responsibly

When decluttering, reflect on how your choices affect the environment. Rather than throwing out items still in good shape, look into donating them to local charities or shelters. Clothing, furniture, and household goods can frequently find new homes with people in need.

Additionally, items that cannot be donated should be recycled as a priority. Recyclable materials like electronic devices, old appliances, and others should be disposed of responsibly to minimize environmental impact.

#4 Digitize Documents and Memorabilia

When moving houses, paper clutter is often a problem as stacks of old documents, photos, and memorabilia consume precious space. Digitize important documents and sentimental items to streamline your move and reduce clutter.

Create digital copies of paperwork, photographs, and other mementos by investing in a scanner or using smartphone apps. Digitizing these documents reduces physical clutter and ensures you can easily access essential information during and after the move.

To preserve sentimental memories without taking up physical storage space, consider digitally archiving items like children's artwork and letters in an online scrapbook.

In conclusion, decluttering before moving is crucial for simplifying the relocation process and starting fresh in your new home. Sticking to the tips above will help make the moving experience more manageable and less stressful.

When decluttering, remember that it involves more than simply getting rid of possessions; it's about creating a space that reflects your current priorities and lays the foundation for an organized, uplifting future in your new home.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

701 Secretariat Avenue SE, Albuquerque, NM 87123

Fantastic, 4 bedroom, Pulte home in serene Four Hills Neighborhood. Seller has added 108k worth of upgrades including: New Roof (2018), Remodeled primary suite (2017), Completely landscaped backyard with pergola, shed and fenced area perfect for dog run or playground (2018), New AC and Furnace(2021) just to name a few. Bright open floorplan with tons of natural light, formal dining room, and breakfast nook! Primary Suite has garden tub, large separate shower and huge walk in closet. Backyard is a dream with no maintenance turf, hot tub, pergola, fenced area and bubble drip system. This home is must see! Check out the sellers feature sheet for more upgrades!

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 your first home in Albuquerque is an exciting milestone, and you'll likely want to personalize the space to make it truly your own. Renovating your home can be a rewarding experience if you approach the process with careful planning and forethought.

For new homeowners looking to renovate, here are five tips to help transform your property into the home of your dreams, whether you're planning minor upgrades or a major overhaul.

1. Create a Budget and Stick to It

To start any renovation project, the first step is to establish a realistic budget by thoroughly evaluating your finances and creating a detailed breakdown of expected costs.

When planning a budget, consider factors such as materials, labor, and any potential unforeseen expenses. A well-thought-out budget not only helps prioritize goals, but also ensures that you don't overspend or compromise the quality of work.

To save money without sacrificing quality, shop around for budget-friendly home items. For instance, many mattress stores in Albuquerque may offer affordable single mattresses that provide comfort and support, so you can sleep well without overspending.

2. Prioritize Any Repairs

Before diving into stylish upgrades, first address any necessary repairs or maintenance your new home requires. While an aesthetic makeover is tempting, focusing on function ensures your home's basic needs are met.

Addressing plumbing, roofing, and electrical issues early on will prevent minor problems from escalating into major repairs later.

Focus first on making any necessary repairs so your home stays safe, usable, and structurally intact. With urgent issues resolved, you can then turn your attention to the more exciting interior design projects with confidence.

3. Focus on Energy Efficiency

With concerns over climate change and rising costs, incorporating energy efficiency into home renovations benefits the environment and saves on energy costs. For example, installing double-glazed windows and insulating walls makes homes more eco-friendly. When choosing energy suppliers, consider companies that prioritize green solutions.

4. Work With Trusted Tradespeople

Though you can complete some parts of the renovation yourself, you should hire experts for areas like electrical work, plumbing, and structural changes to ensure those complex tasks are handled properly.

Although it may seem like an unnecessary cost, hiring professionals to maintain your health, safety, and home is crucial for your well-being and your property's longevity.

5. Plan for Your Future Needs

As you plan home renovations, consider how your family's needs and lifestyle may evolve, and aim to build in flexibility that allows rooms to serve multiple functions or accommodate future additions to the family.

Thinking ahead can save you time and money in the long run, ensuring that your Albuquerque home remains functional and accommodating for years to come.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

460 Michael Avenue SW, Los Lunas, NM 87031

Beautiful Hakes Brothers home in the much desired Legacy at Sierra Vista subdivision. 1907 SF with 4 bd, 2 ba., built in 2022. Owner has finished the backyard and spent $10k on a (custom) security door and side gates. In addition; raised the walls in the backyard for privacy. Home comes equipped with a kitchen stainless package + washer/dryer. Builder upgrades include: fireplace, instant hot, pot filler, rain shower and so much more! Call for a showing today!

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Imagine starting out the new year in 2024 in one of these fine Albuquerque homes! These stunning homes offer everything you need to start a new life and a new year. And of course, if these homes are not what you're looking for, our experienced and dedicated agents will make sure you find the perfect home for your needs.

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

460 Michael Avenue SW, Los Lunas, NM 87031

Beautiful Hakes Brothers home in the much desired Legacy at Sierra Vista subdivision. 1907 SF with 4 bd, 2 ba., built in 2022. Owner has finished the backyard and spent $10k on a (custom) security door and side gates. In addition; raised the walls in the backyard for privacy. Home comes equipped with a kitchen stainless package + washer/dryer. Builder upgrades include: fireplace, instant hot, pot filler, rain shower and so much more! Call for a showing today!

Learn More!

Contact us today to help you buy or sell your next home in Albuquerque. Looking for the perfect home for sale in Albuquerque? Our easy-to-use home search tool can help you start the process. Join us twice a week on our blog for more real estate advice and great reasons to buy a home in Albuquerque and the surrounding area. Follow us on Facebook for the latest Albuquerque real estate updates.

Welcome to this wonderful home in the Sundoro South community. Big open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, three way fireplace. Kitchen offers stainless appliances, eat in bar, ample cabinets and countertops for food prep. Kitchen flows nicely into the dining room and great room. Through the sliding doors, find yourself in the best backyard party ever! Covered patio, plus the built-in BBQ grill, two smokers and a disc cooker. Great place to enjoy our NM weather. Back inside, Split primary suite, separate shower, garden tub, dual vanities and walk in closet. 2 more good sized bedrooms that share a bathroom. There is an additional flex space that could be used as an office, hobby room or home school. Beautiful Park just down the street, easy access to I-40.

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.

Learn More!

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team!

If you're thinking about buying a home in Albuquerque, you've made a wise choice. Albuquerque offers a diverse range of attractions, making it an appealing place to call home. The city boasts a favorable climate, rich history, vibrant arts scene, and a thriving culture. Its beautiful architecture adds to its charm. However, there are additional compelling reasons to consider buying a home in Albuquerque. Let's explore these further.

Affordable Real Estate

In October 2023, the median listing home price in Albuquerque, NM was $372.8K, trending up 8.1% year-over-year. The median listing home price per square foot was $206. The median home sold price was $339.2K.

Homes for sale in Albuquerque definitely give you far more bang for the buck compared to other markets. 

Stable Job Market

Albuquerque benefits from a stable level of employment, largely due to the presence of state and federal level jobs. Sandia Laboratories, a high paying employer, contributes significantly to the job market. Additionally, the healthcare and education fields offer ample employment opportunities in the area.

Livability

Albuquerque boasts a walk score of 43 and a transit score of 30, both of which surpass the average for cities in New Mexico. It is renowned for its bike-friendly environment and offers numerous bike trails in the scenic Sandia Hills. The city provides a wide range of outdoor recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts. Remarkably, despite its natural beauty, Albuquerque remains relatively free from tourist crowds.

More Renters

The presence of a large military population in this area ensures a steady supply of potential renters for your investment home. Given that those serving in the military are more inclined to rent rather than buy, you can expect a consistent flow of cash from monthly rental payments. With the average rent being around $1300, your investment is likely to yield a favorable return.

Living History

Albuquerque, the largest city in New Mexico, has a rich and diverse history. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Pueblo people. In 1706, a Spanish colonial outpost was established in the area, which eventually grew into the city we know today.

Albuquerque played a significant role in the development of the American Southwest, serving as a trading center and transportation hub along the historic Route 66. The city has also been influenced by its proximity to Native American and Hispanic cultures, which are still celebrated today through various festivals and events. Albuquerque is known for its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a fascinating destination for visitors and a vibrant community for its residents.

Albuquerque is undeniably one of the top cities in America to purchase a home. If you're searching for a home in Albuquerque, reach out to our knowledgeable agents today to assist you in finding the ideal property for sale in this remarkable city.

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.

Learn More!

Just listed! Whether you're looking for the ideal starter home, or a luxurious home with all the bells and whistles, we have what you need. These great homes have just hit the market, so make sure you check them out now before the opportunity passes.

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

Updated Wood Brothers home, all completed within thepast 6 yrs, updated Kitchen, appliances, counters, bathrooms,Solar Hot Water, custom fireplace, custom sunroom, sola tubes,refrigerated a/c, roof.wood floors. Back yard access with steelgate (rv pad).Storage sheds, oversized garage.Wow...I hope Ididnt miss anything, so don't miss out.

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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.

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.

Buying a home in Albuquerque is an exciting yet potentially overwhelming experience. The process involves numerous steps that lead to the closing.

One of those steps is called a title search.

It is important to note that when purchasing a home, it is not always guaranteed that the seller has full entitlement to sell the property. There may be instances where another individual or entity has a claim or lien on the property in question. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct thorough due diligence and seek professional assistance to ensure a clear title before proceeding with the purchase.

That’s where a property title search is relevant.

What Happens During a Title Search?

When purchasing a home, conducting a title search is crucial. This process involves reviewing public property records to verify the legal ownership of the property. Additionally, a title search uncovers any existing liens or claims that may impact your ability to purchase the property.

A property title is distinct from a deed and is not a document. It represents ownership rights. A title company or attorney can conduct a property title search to ensure no other party can claim ownership. If you are obtaining financing, a title search is mandatory before the loan is funded.

Who Does a Title Search?

When purchasing a home, the responsibility of conducting a title search falls either on a title loan company or an attorney, depending on the location. After the contract is signed, the buyer's attorney may order the title search and either complete it themselves or delegate the task to a title company. The completed report is then sent to the seller's representative, who is responsible for handling any issues that may arise.

There are a lot of sources of information that might be accessed during a title search, including:

• County land records
• Deeds
• Property plats
• Tax liens at the state and federal level
• Divorce records
• Bankruptcy court records
• Construction liens
• Judgments

When a title search is done, it will also uncover details about mortgages associated with the property.

How Long Does it Take?

The duration of a title search can vary from a few hours to a few weeks. Generally, the older the home you are interested in purchasing, the longer the title search will take. This is due to the potential involvement of multiple owners and transactions related to the property.

What If There Are Issues?

Some of the common issues that can come up during a title search include:

• A break of chain in the title: In this scenario, there might be a missing deed in the chain. This is common in older homes.
• An improper description on the deed: There might be an improper or missing description on a deed, and that would require obtaining a corrected deed.
• Missing interests: If there’s a transfer via an estate in a title chain, then any heirs must have relinquished their interest in the property. If they haven’t, then you have to get deeds from the parties with an interest to release it.
• Liens: This is a legal claim or right on a property often used as a way to get repayment for a debt. Title searches can show if there’s a lien on a property and whether or not it might be expired or could be something requiring payment.

A title search is a crucial step in the home buying process. It is important to understand what happens during a title search and the potential results. To gain clarity, it is recommended to consult with your Realtor or attorney. Failing to uncover issues like judgments or liens before closing on a home can lead to costly and stressful situations down the line. If you purchase a home with a judgment against it, you may become responsible for resolving the issue.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Welcome to this wonderful home in the Sundoro South community. Big open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, three way fireplace. Kitchen offers stainless appliances, eat in bar, ample cabinets and countertops for food prep. Kitchen flows nicely into the dining room and great room. Through the sliding doors, find yourself in the best backyard party ever! Covered patio, plus the built-in BBQ grill, two smokers and a disc cooker. Great place to enjoy our NM weather. Back inside, Split primary suite, separate shower, garden tub, dual vanities and walk in closet. 2 more good sized bedrooms that share a bathroom. There is an additional flex space that could be used as an office, hobby room or home school. Beautiful Park just down the street, easy access to I-40.

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