Real Estate Information Archive

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

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

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

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

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

12 DUSTIN COURT, PLACITAS, NM

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

GET YOUR MORNING INSPIRATION WITH THE Sandi Pressley TEAM!

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

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

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

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

916 LOS PADRES PLACE SE, ALBUQUERQUE, NM

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

GET YOUR MORNING INSPIRATION WITH THE Sandi Pressley TEAM!

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

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

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

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

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

HOT LISTING OF THE WEEK!

13908 INDIAN SCHOOL ROAD NE, ALBUQUERQUE, NM

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

GET YOUR MORNING INSPIRATION WITH THE Sandi Pressley TEAM!

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

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

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

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

HOT LISTING OF THE WEEK!

1340 CHIHUAHUA ROAD NE, RIO RANCHO, NM

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

GET YOUR MORNING INSPIRATION WITH THE Sandi Pressley TEAM!

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

Consider Nearby or Adjacent ZIP Codes

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

Purchase a Foreclosure or Fixer-Upper

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

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

Consider a Roommate

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

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

Try a Starter Home Before Thinking of a Forever Home

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

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

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

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

Looking to find the perfect home in Albuquerque? Let us help you find the perfect home in Albuquerque. And make sure to join us twice a week on our blog for more great reasons to buy a home in Albuquerque and the surrounding area. Follow us on Facebook for the latest Albuquerque real estate updates.

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

7 Chamisa Road, Placitas, NM  $468,000

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

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

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

$499,000

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

What Are Past Problems That Were Fixed?

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

Switch and Valve Locations

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

Ask About the Neighborhood

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

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

10 Caminito Trail, Placitas   $395,000

3 Bedrooms/ 2 Bathrooms/ 2580 Square Feet

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

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Are you ready to buy your first home in Albuquerque? Obviously, buying a home for the first time is a major life decision.  You will be investing a large amount of money and time in this adventure.  Do you know all the steps involved in the home buying process? It's important to know the steps along the journey and what tools are available.  You also need to forge relationships with experts in Albuquerque who can help you along the way.

Here are the 11 steps to living the dream of owning your first home.

1. Do Your Homework
   Any large purchase requires planning, and that is particularly true with buying a home in Albuquerque. Factors such as price, housing type, neighborhood, school districts, and more need to be considered. Here's a worksheet that can help you pin down what you're really looking for. Fill it out with your partner (if you're not single) and your agent.  That way everyone is one the same page - literally.
   
   
2. Start Shopping For Homes in Albuquerque
   Now that you know what you're looking for, start looking for listings online.  Here's a great tool for finding the ideal home in Albuquerque and surrounding communities.
   
   
3. Find a Great Agent
   We're ready to help you find the perfect first home and help you through the process.
   
   
4. Choose a Lender
   After you find the right agent, we can help you find the right mortgage lender. This is an important step as your lender will be working closely with you throughout the process.
   
   
5. Pick a Loan
   Your lender will work with you to determine the right mortgage to fit your financial needs.  You'll need to provide proof of income, employment, and other details.
   
   
6. Look at Homes
   Now comes the fun part! Your agent will help you find homes in in Albuquerque and the surrounding areas in New Mexico that fit your budget and the needs you determined in step 1.
   
   
7. Make an Offer
   When you find the ideal home, then you make the offer.  Your agent will help you decide how much you want to pay, along with contingencies that both parties can agree on.
   
   
8. Negotiate, Negotiate, Negotiate
   Now comes the time where you work out the deal for your new home in in Albuquerque.  It can be an emotional time, especially if you really want the house. Some sellers may just accept your offer, but some may make a counter-offer.  Your agent will work with you to decide what to do.
   
   
9. Inspect the Home
   When an offer is accepted, then you'll sign a contract that will no doubt include a home inspection contingency.  At this point you'll hire a licensed home inspector to look for needed repairs. If major repairs are needed, then the seller will be asked to make those repairs.
   
   
10. Appraisal
    Your lender needs to determine if the home is worth enough to cover the mortgage.
    
    
11. Close the Deal
    The home is close to being yours! You just need to sign the final paperwork to finish the deal.  Then it's time to show off your new home to all your family and friends!

The Sandi Pressley Team has been helping people buy their first home in in Albuquerque for years. They can help you through all of these steps to guide you to owning your first home in in Albuquerque. You can call them at 505-980-2999. Your first home is only a few steps away!

Don't forget to follow us on Facebook!

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

210 Tornasol Lane NE, Albuquerque, NM  $450,000

3 Bedrooms/ 2 Bathrooms (2 full, 0 partial) / 2573 Square Feet

The charms of North Valley country living only with a NE address! Impeccably maintained, one owner, custom built,TRUE Southwestern adobe home on 1/2 acre with RV parking! Escape to the beautiful backyard with raised bed garden with plum trees, shade trees, roses, solar wall and fire pit.

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Buying a home – what an exciting time! But don’t get carried away with all the excitement. Now more than ever, you need to think carefully about your decisions.  It’s easy to get emotional about a home you fall in love with.  Many times people will let their emotions take over and not ask the important questions that need to be asked before buying a home. And that can lead to some major buyer remorse.

What are the most important questions to ask when buying a home? Here’s a few to consider.

What Is the Home’s Market Value?

This is a very important question since it will determine the amount you’ll offer for the home.  You need to know what the market value is to make a solid offer.  But also remember that there’s no magic formula for making an offer.  But the market value is certainly the biggest factor in making a decision.

How Much Did the Seller Pay For the Home?

Many people will buy a home just to flip it for a huge profit.  Some may have made improvements to the house that will increase the value, but that’s always the case. Knowing how much the previous owner paid will give insight into whether or not the home is overpriced.

How Long Has the Home Been on the Market?

You can sometimes tell the motivation level of a seller by how long the home has been listed. Sure, it’s also the agent who can affect this factor.  Your agent can look to see how many times the home has been relisted and the pricing history.

Click here to find more important questions to ask when buying a home. And always feel free to call or contact Sandi and her team for expert advice.

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

1743 Black Gold Street SE, Albuquerque, NM  $255,000

4 Bedrooms/ 3 Bathrooms (2 full, 1 partial) / 2269 Square Feet

4 beds PLUS LOFT!! Extended patio and beautifully landscaped backyard with grass and shrubs and sprinkler system!  Refridgerated air, security system, newly painted, stacked stone front exterior, water heater new in 2016.

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team