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How to Handle Problem Neighbors

by Sandi Pressley

A neighbor with an iron fist and an intolerance for all things fun can absolutely ruin buying a home in Albuquerque. ...or who makes all the noise. There are a number of types of neighbors you hope not to have. 

The Neighbors from Hell Instagram page contains cautionary tale after cautionary tale, and a few laughs at the same time. Although you can't avoid every nuisance in a neighborhood, you can prepare for it by doing your research on the areas in Albuquerque you're considering.

You can take these steps to diffuse or rectify a tense or problematic situation if you end up with a neighbor who is worrying.

Lend an ear

Perhaps your neighbor's grumpiness is a cry for help. A little kindness can sometimes tame a grouch, even if the person doesn't deserve it. 

Lend a hand

Are your neighbors' lawns overgrown, their shutters peeling, or their siding dirty? Despite the fact that you may assume they're neglectful, there may be a larger issue at play, The Spruce reported. “The family may be dealing with sickness, or their lawnmower broke down and they can't afford a new one.”

Don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself

It is sometimes necessary to show strength to someone who isn't used to facing a formidable foe. There may be a better way, but it might require you to get in the muck in order to achieve your goals.

Get support

Rentberry noted that joint efforts lead to more success. “If it’s likely that you’re not the only one unhappy about your neighbor’s behavior, you should check if someone else is ready to side you. This point is especially important if you decide to contact local precinct or file a complaint in court. In this case, quantity matters. The more people share your opinion, the more chances to win you have.”

Get the authorities involved

The situation may require escalation if it involves legal violations or being intimidated or harassed.

Steer clear of danger

“Sad but true, some neighbors are not worth getting to know well—but it’s still good to know something about their dislikes and boundaries, so you don’t cross them,” said HGTV. An elderly Ohio man named Charles Martin shot to death a 15-year-old boy in 2006 because he walked across his meticulously mowed lawn in a suburb of Cincinnati, Ohio.

How to handle them: Martin—who is in jail—may have been destined to snap no matter what his neighbors did or didn’t do, but he was well known for the care he lavished on his lawn, and in theory, if that 15-year-old had been more aware of the kook’s devotion to his lawn, it might have kept him from going anywhere near the home.

Nightmare neighbors are just sometimes unavoidable. But with these above tips, you may have a chance of making your situation more livable.

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

 

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

2230 VISTA DE COLINAS Drive SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124  $269,000

3 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms (2 full, 1 half) / 1781 Square Feet

CORNER LOT! REFRIGERATED AIR! New water heater! (2021) Tile roof! Beautiful 3BDRs plus LOFT/2BA/2CG in with two living areas! Open great room with tile flooring! Kitchen features lots of cabinets and walk-in pantry for storage, granite countertops, decorative backsplash, gas stove, built-in microware, refrigerator and large bkfst nook! Large loft and utility room upstairs! Master suite features tow walk-in closets, garden tub, sep shower, raised dual sink vanity! Backyard has open patio and easy care landscape. Desirable community of Cabezon with parks, schools, close to shopping, restaurants, Intel, Cottonwood Mall and Presbyterian Rust Medical Center!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Make the Winning Offer

by Sandi Pressley

Albuquerque is currently a seller's market, so you may have problems finding a home to buy. More people are searching for homes than usual, but fewer homes are available. Therefore, the key to getting a good home deal is having a competitive edge. Here are a few tips that will help you close the deal.

Listen to Your Realtor

A Freddie Mac article discusses making an offer. Throughout the process, it emphasizes how important it is to be guided by trusted professionals, especially during times of emotion:

“Remember to let your homebuying team guide you on your journey, not your emotions. Their support and expertise will keep you from compromising on your must-haves and future financial stability.”

When making an offer, the first thing you should do is get expert advice. Over the years, Sandi Pressley and her team have helped many Albuquerque residents find their dream home. Your home buying experience will be greatly enhanced by their experience.

Understand Your Finances

Before you look at houses, you should know what you can afford and what your financial situation is like. In addition to this valuable information, getting pre-approved for a loan shows the selling agent that you mean business and are serious about buying. 

Act Fast!

Recent NAR data shows that real estate listings received an average of 3.7 offers and remained on the market for an average of 21 days. As these examples illustrate, it is crucial to remain flexible and alert while searching for a house. Once you find a home that meets your needs, you should be prepared to make an offer as soon as possible.

Make a Fair Offer

If you're buying a home, you obviously want the best terms possible. There is, however, a need to appeal to the seller. Low-ball offers are likely to make sellers question the seriousness of your offer. Do not submit an offer which will be rejected immediately. 

Stay Flexible in Negotiations

The mere fact that you submitted an offer doesn't mean it will be accepted. Keep in mind that you may be competing with multiple offers. The seller can accept, reject, or counter an offer. Negotiating in a competitive market requires nimbleness. By including flexible moving dates, a higher price, or a minimal contingency clause (conditions you set that the seller must meet before a purchase is finalized), you can strengthen your position when making an offer. 

It is more important than ever to make a winning offer on a home in today's competitive real estate market in Albuquerque. Be sure to connect with Sandi Pressley as soon as you can so that you can stay on top of the game.

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

 

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

46 PASEO TRINIDAD, Corrales, NM 87048   $795,000

3 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms (2 full, 1 half) / 3257 Square Feet

One of a kind custom built home with east facing views of the Sandia Mountains. Contemporary southwest in design, featuring beams & planked ceilings, Lintels above windows, custom kiva fireplace & polished concrete floors. Enter home through a private courtyard, filled with blooming flowers. Once inside you will find a media room, an additional flex/work wing, 3 rooms in total, could be used as multi generation living quarters. Great room with views of Mountains. Kitchen w/custom two toned Alder wood cabinets. stainless appliances & ample pantry. Primary suite with private bathroom & walk in closet, split from 2 more bedrooms that offers a media space & loft. Wonder 1 acre lot, with mature landscape & grass. Backyard access, space for RV, boats and toys. 2 car detached garage.

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Is Rent-to-Own a Good Way to Buy a Home in Albuquerque?

by Sandi Pressley

If you want to buy a home in Albuquerque, one of the options you might come across is rent-to-own. It may sound like a great deal at first, but as with anything, there are pros and cons. The real question boils down to if it’s the best way for you to go in order to own a home.

Here are some important things you should know before you get into a rent-to-own agreement.

The Basics

While rent-to-own properties can be appealing, there are also risks involved.

This type of agreement basically tells you that you’re going to rent a house for a certain amount of time until you gain ownership. The time you rent can range from a couple of months to a few years, depending on your contract.

A company or an individual can be the owner of a property.

A predetermined amount of each rent payment is retained by the seller. That money will go toward the equity at the time of sale.

A lease-purchase agreement and a lease-option agreement are both categorized as rent-to-own agreements. When you follow the lease option agreement, you can opt to buy the home after the time you agree upon. On the other hand, with a lease-purchase agreement, you have a legal obligation to buy the house.

The Process

While every process might have its own unique elements, some of the things to anticipate in a rent-to-own transaction include:

  • An agreement will first specify a purchase price, which may be based on the current value of the home, or perhaps on the estimated future value. Perhaps a buyer and seller agree to a price during negotiations, while the purchase price is decided when a lease expires.
  • Your monthly rent payment then becomes a part of your contract. Since a portion is being set aside toward your future purchase, the rent payment will likely be more than comparable rent prices in the neighborhood.
  • The seller can require you to cover the entire cost of maintenance, so when you enter into one of these agreements, it’s important to understand exactly what you’re agreeing to.
  • The seller usually collects a one-time fee that isn't refundable, and some sellers will apply it to the equity balance. The fee is usually calculated based on a percentage of the sales price of the house.
  • Your contract will dictate a specific lease term.
  • At the end of your lease term, if you intend to purchase a house, you’ll have to obtain financing. So there will be a closing date.

The Pros of Rent-to-Own

For buyers, the upsides of rent-to-own agreements include:

  • By progressively accumulating your down payment, you’re avoiding having to come up with a large sum upfront.
  • There will be no competition from other buyers when you are ready to buy.
  • It is not necessary to qualify for a mortgage right away, so you can build your credit score over a period of time.

The Cons of Rent-to-Own

Rent-to-own deals might sound great, but there are a lot of downsides to them.

  • Because you are being forced to set aside a down payment, you will pay more rent than you would for a comparable home. On the other hand, you could rent a home at a lower price and then put a portion of your own income into a savings account.
  • If your deal doesn’t work out, you still have to pay the option money, which is not refundable.
  • There is a good chance that you will be forced to pay all the maintenance and repairs on a home that you do not yet own.
  • You might end up with a purchase price in your agreement that is much too high if the home’s value goes down.
  • A foreclosure is one example of situations beyond your control that could cause you to lose your equity in the home.

It is important to weigh the pros and cons of your personal financial situation and determine what is best for you.

The traditional route rather than rent-to-own can be more advantageous as a home buyer in Albuquerque, especially if you have good credit.

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

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

1261 MONTERREY Road NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144  $539,000

4 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms (3 full, 0 half) / 3007 Square Feet

Stunning custom Tuscan style home in a highly sought-after Rio Rancho location. With beautiful Mountain and City views!! This luxurious home has a fantastic layout perfect for entertaining. Grand iron Double Entry Doors. Beautiful beamed ceiling also boasts gorgeous marbled tiled barreled ceilings. Kitchen is a chefs dream with granite counter tops, pantry, SS appliances and huge island. Large Owners suite has balcony access, fireplace and a spa like bath equipped with a jetted tub. This home has to many amenities to list, come see for yourself!!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

Find the Right Home in a Seller's Market in Albuquerque

by Sandi Pressley

By most accounts, we are currently in a seller's market in Albuquerque. Home prices nationwide are expected to rise, and there are fewer homes on the market. This means that as a home buyer in Albuquerque, you need to up your game to get the right home.

Here are a few suggestions to keep in mind as you search for your dream home in Albuquerque.

Be Decisive

When you find a home for sale in Albuquerque that might fit your needs and budget, you need to be decisive. It really can boil down to who gets to the home first when it comes to making an offer. 

If you want to see a home that goes on the market, don’t wait until the weekend for a showing. Try to get a showing as soon as you can, or if that’s not possible, do a virtual showing.

You also need to work with an agent who is an expert in the Albuquerque real estate market and will work hard to help you get the right home.

Avoid Contingencies

Don't make your offer complicated for the seller. If you add contingencies to your offer, they may opt for a faster and easier deal.

Contingencies may offer you as a buyer more ways to back out of a deal, which may be appealing to you. But from the seller's point of view, this may make them just go with what they view as a more stable offer.

You can still protect yourself, even without contingencies. For example, you may want to get your loan completely underwritten. This means you go through the full loan process before you make an offer.

It Doesn't Need to Be Perfect

The right home doesn't have to be perfect right our of the gate. With inventory as low as it is, finding the "perfect" home may not be an option. But that's OK.

If you find a home that's right for you, you can make it perfect later. It's your home. You can do what you want with it.

Be Disciplined with Your Budget

If a bidding war breaks out over the home you want, be careful not to get carried away. Getting emotionally attached to a home can make you go beyond your budget.

Set a budget, and don’t let yourself go above it, no matter what the other offers may look like. Sure, offering too much may get you the house, but it’s going to create financial stress for you for years to come.

Offer More Earnest Money

Earnest money is something like a deposit and you provide it alongside your bid. It’s a way to show the seller you’re serious, but if the deal doesn’t go through you can get that money back.

Usually, you’ll see buyers offering around 1%, but during a hot market, think about offering more. It shows that you’re more invested in the deal and less likely to let it slip through your fingers.

If you have the option to pay with cash, that’s almost always going to win you favor. Cash offers take out the element of financing contingencies, and they make for a simpler transaction, which is beneficial for buyers. A cash buyer also tends to be more serious, and when you buy with cash you’re not beholden to the lender through the closing process.

Buying a home in a seller's market can be challenging, but you can find the right home if you're patient and work with the right agent. The Sandi Pressley Team has the experience to help you find the best home for your needs in this seller's market in Albuquerque.

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

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

3517 CALLE SUENOS SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124  $399,000

3 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms (2 full, 0 half) / 2517 Square Feet

Custom elegance abounds in this exquisite home! Upgrades include REFRIG AIR, radiant heat plus furnace, solar, water softener, surround sound, custom paint, custom lighting & ceiling fans! HUGE great room features soaring wood beam ceiling, wall of windows, tile flooring, & cozy Kiva fireplace. Beautiful kitchen features SS appliances, built in wall oven, gas cooktop, wine fridge, pot rack, walk-in pantry, bkfst nook, butcher block island & huge adjoining bar to entertain family & friends. Private master suite features Kiva fireplace, sitting area, balcony w/mtn views & CA Closet walk-in. Oversized 2CG garage has extra storage space & wkshop! Beautiful outdoor living area features a large brick patio, outdoor kitchen, lush landscape, 2 fountains & custom swing to enjoy the views!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

Keys to a Successful Walk-Through

by Sandi Pressley

When you buy a home in Albuquerque, the last step is usually the final walk-through. This is an important step in the buying process, as you and your agent will need to carefully look at the condition of the home before you close the deal.

How does this process work, and what should you look for?

A walk-through happens just before settlement. It's your time as a buyer to check the property and make sure any work has been done on the home that was part of the negotiations. The seller and listing agent usually won't be there during the walk-through. That way there won't be as much pressure on you as a buyer as you inspect the property.

What should you check during the walk-through?

  • Inspect the outside for any obvious damage
  • Run the AC
  • Turn on and off all the lights
  • Test all appliances
  • Run the faucets and check for leaks
  • Flush the toilets and check for leaks`
  • Open and shut all the doors and windows
  • Verify that any agreed upon repairs have been made
  • Verify that any fixtures that are supposed to be left behind are still in place

As you check these items, make a list of questions about how systems in the home work and anything else you need clarification on. 

Also, make sure you give yourself plenty of time for the inspection. This is your last chance before you complete the purchase, and you won't have another chance to make sure the home is up to your expectations.

You should also have your Agreement of Sale and inspection reports handy to make sure that anything that needed repaired has been taken care of. You should also take photos of items that have not been taken care of so that you can further negotiate repairs.

A successful walk-through may take time and effort, but it's worth it as it could save you many headaches after you've finalized the purchase.

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

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

9423 MORROW Avenue NE, Albuquerque, NM 87112  $220,000

4 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms (1 full, 1 half) / 1475 Square Feet

Excellent location across from SNOW PARK!! 4BDR/2BA/1CG! TPO Roof! New Swamp Cooler! Newly updated kitchen! Wood floors! Great room features cozy wood burning fireplace, wood floors and is open to the dining room. Beautifully remodeled kitchen featuring new cabinets, granite countertops, SS microwave & dishwasher, refrigerator, new tile flooring! Separate utility room and washer & dryer stay! Close to shopping, restaurants, parks, transportation and Uptown!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

Buying Furniture for Your New Home? Consider These Points First

by Sandi Pressley

You've found the perfect home for sale in Albuquerque and closed the deal. Now for the fun part - buying furniture! But hold on, don't get carried away. Doing so can lead to costly mistakes. When it comes to buying furniture for your home, there are a number of points to consider to make sure you buy the right items.

Measure Twice, Move Once

Will your new luxury leather couch fit through the front door, or any of your doors? There’s nothing more frustrating than buying a piece of furniture and not be able to get it in the house. Also, consider the size of the room you’re placing your furniture. Would it be too big or small? Make sure that you get the measurements on the furniture you’re buying and compare it to the space you plan to put it. You can also download an app for your pad or phone that will help you visualize how furniture will look in your home.

Maintenance

Hardwood furniture is certainly appealing and will last for many years, but it does take more maintenance than furniture made with synthetic materials. Make sure that you have the time and know-how to care for hardwood furniture before you invest in it.

Avoid Fads

Will that trendy chair or sofa still be in style next year? If you want to avoid having your home look dated, consider more classic styles. Classic styles will outlive trends for generations and always keep your home looking good.

Take Some Time

There’s no law that says you have to buy the first piece of furniture that strikes your fancy. It’s a lot like buying a home. Did you buy the first home you saw? Probably not. When you take your time, there’s more of a chance of finding the best products that will compliment your home.

Think Ahead

What are your living plans over the next few years? Are you staying in your home indefinitely? Or are you planning to upgrade in the a few years? Base your furniture choices on your plans as much as possible and you won’t have to spend more money than you need to if you do move.

Cost and Budget

Lay out a budget before you dive into the furniture stores or shop online. And of course, furniture stores have all sorts of sales and plans to get you to buy more than you need. Stay focused on your goals and budget. If you buy furniture using credit plans offered by these store, you will pay more than you need to for items that are not necessarily of higher quality. Remember – furniture stores exist to make money.

If you keep these thoughts in mind when buying furniture for your home in Albuquerque, you can make great choices that will make your home look amazing for years to come.

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

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

13504 DESERT ZINNIA Court NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111  $1,125,000

4 Bedrooms / 4 Bathrooms (4 full, 0 half) / 4556 Square Feet

Highly Sought after High Desert Contemporary Southwestern Beauty. Custom built for Original owner. Well Situated on .86 acre lot to maximize the spectacular Mountain and City views! Incredible floor plan features 4 spacious en-suite bedrooms all with private bathrooms, Dual Masters, with the largest one on main level. Gorgeous, sunny kitchen with quartz counter tops, opens onto bright, light breakfast nook and family room. Complete with kitchen island, double ovens. Soaring ceilings throughout - with walls of windows to enjoy the views from every room. Approx 1500 sqft of wrap around decks/patios on front and back of home can be accessed from all bedrooms. Gorgeous serene courtyard with water feature. Spectacular low maintenance landscaping front and back! Newer TPO top of the line roof.

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

Negotiate Your Best Offer When Buying a Home in Albuquerque

by Sandi Pressley

Every home buyer in Albuquerque wants to make the perfect offer when buying a home. Ideally you won't have to negotiate and you can move on with the deal and move into your new home.

Sure, that could happen. But usually, there's going to be some negotiation to nail down the perfect offer. But sellers are known to reject offers for a variety of reasons. Or they make counteroffers. This is especially likely if you bid low, or when you’re up against multiple competing offers.

Here are a few rules you should know before you start negotiating:

Act Fast

When the seller makes a counteroffer, don't sit on it. You should respond as quickly as possible. The longer you wait, the more space you leave for another buyer to swoop in and nab the property. Also, if a seller senses hesitation, they may decide to withdraw their counteroffer before you even have a chance to respond.

Raise Your Price (Within Reason)

Of course you don't want to overpay for your home. But you may have to up the offer, especially if you initially made a lowball offer. You agent will lend their expertise to determine how much money you should add to the offer.

Before you make an offer, talk with your agent about how high you’re willing to go if the seller doesn’t accept your bid. Then your agent can make the counteroffer look even more attractive by pointing out similarly priced “comps”, recently sold homes in the area of the home that are comparable in terms of square footage and features.

As your agent negotiates, it can feel like things are escalating quickly. It’s stressful. You may feel a sudden urge to do whatever it takes to win.

Before you go overboard, there are two things you must keep in mind:

  • You can’t exceed the monetary confines of the pre-approved mortgage you received from your lender.
  • You shouldn’t overextend your budget.
  • Because your counteroffer has to be an amount you’re comfortable spending on a home. You want that new house and to keep living your life. Plus: You’re not out of options yet.

Increase Your Earnest Money Deposit

Increasing your earnest money deposit (EMD) — the sum of money you put down to prove to the seller you’re serious (i.e., “earnest”) about buying the house — is another way to show the seller you have more skin in the game. A standard EMD is typically 1% to 3% of the sales price of the home. Making a counteroffer with a 3% to 4% deposit could be what you need to persuade the seller to side with you.

Demonstrate Patience About Taking Possession

Depending on the seller’s timetable, changing your proposed possession date, the date you take over the property, could sweeten the deal. If the seller wants to stay in the home for a few days after closing, try offering a later possession date. You could also draw up a “rent-back” agreement, meaning the seller pays you rent for staying in the home for a set period of time after the closing date.

Negotiating the right price for a home for sale in Albuquerque can be a challenging task. But if you follow these tips, you can have a better chance of getting the perfect deal on your new home.

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

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

13504 DESERT ZINNIA Court NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111  $1,125,000

4 Bedrooms / 4 Bathrooms (4 full, 0 half) / 4556 Square Feet

Highly Sought after High Desert Contemporary Southwestern Beauty. Custom built for Original owner. Well Situated on .86 acre lot to maximize the spectacular Mountain and City views! Incredible floor plan features 4 spacious en-suite bedrooms all with private bathrooms, Dual Masters, with the largest one on main level. Gorgeous, sunny kitchen with quartz counter tops, opens onto bright, light breakfast nook and family room. Complete with kitchen island, double ovens. Soaring ceilings throughout - with walls of windows to enjoy the views from every room. Approx 1500 sqft of wrap around decks/patios on front and back of home can be accessed from all bedrooms. Gorgeous serene courtyard with water feature. Spectacular low maintenance landscaping front and back! Newer TPO top of the line roof.

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

Keep Yourself From Becoming "House Poor"

by Sandi Pressley

Have you heard of the term "house poor"? If you are house poor, it simply means that you're spending most of your income on things related to your home. This is more than just the mortgage. It includes things like maintenance, utilities, insurance, and taxes. When you’re house poor, you can’t afford many other things, and certainly not big extras like vacations.

When you buy a home in Albuquerque, you need to know what you realistically can afford to keep from being house poor. One of the biggest mistakes home buyers make is being too ambitious and taking on a home that's too expensive, as well as not anticipating other expenses.

Here are some ways to buy a home in Albuquerque that you can reasonably afford and lower your risk of being house poor.

Crunch the Numbers

Before you ever start the actual process of shopping for homes, look at the numbers.

You’ll need to take into account how much your household earns every month. Then, outline all of the housing costs, which include:

• The down payment
• Property taxes
• Homeowner’s insurance
• Utilities and maintenance

Tally up all of the expenses that you currently have to pay every month. Then, look at your discretionary spending and include that as well. Including that discretionary spending is important and sometimes overlooked. It’s those extras that you want to be able to continue to pay for, even when you buy a home.

Follow the 28/36% Rule

Many financial professionals advise that you spend no more than 28% of your gross monthly income on your housing expenses. You should also plan to spend no more than 36% on your total debt, including not just your home loan but your credit cards, car loan, and student loans.

Affordability Considerations

Some of the things that you should think about beyond your income and expenses include:

• How much savings do you have set aside? You want to have a reserve of cash in case something happens, and if your down payment or mortgage costs are going to dip into your savings, that can be a problem.
• How much of a down payment can you afford? The traditional wisdom is that you put 20% down, but there are loans with options to put as little as 3% down. Remember that the lower the down payment, this higher your monthly payments will be.
• Is there a different type of mortgage outside of a traditional bank loan that you might qualify for? For example, FHA loans are backed by the Federal Housing Administration and you may qualify with a lower credit score and down payment compared to a traditional loan.

Take Steps to Get a Competitive Interest Rates

Interest rates are at an all-time low. Even so, try to get the most competitive rates you can. Having a strong credit score will help. Before you buy a home, look at your credit report, and clean it up if necessary. Try to minimize how much debt you have compared to your income.

Err on the Side of Caution

When you start looking at homes, you should always err on the side of caution. Keep your house hunt focused on the lower end of what you can technically afford. If you’re a first-time home buyer in Albuquerque, it can be tempting to want to go all-in with the belief that you’re buying your forever home. Your life can change over the years, and your first home is probably not your forever home.

Focus on finding a starter home for sale in Albuquerque that works for your current needs. You can’t just think about your current income either. Think about what might happen if you lost your job or your partner lost their income. How would that change the equation?

Finally, one option that can help you better stay within your budget is buying a fixer-upper. You can find a great deal, and then you have the option to gradually create the home of your dreams as your budget allows, rather than having to go all-in right away.

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

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

804 ADAMS Place SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108  $399,000

3 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms (1 full, 2 half) / 1888 Square Feet

Magnificent Rex Wilson remodel of this amazing Pueblo style home. From the minute you enter you will feel like you are on vacation (feels like a Taos Hacienda), beautiful hardwood floor, custom carved beams, corbels kiva fireplace, leads into a wonderful custom kitchen. Skylights bring in natural light, and Pella windows, hardwood doors updated electrical and an amazing wrap around covered patio embraces beautifully landscaped private oasis. ''And'' a detached casita heating cooled, presently used as a theatre room (projection equipment, screen and couches will stay) and of course a totally remodeled bathroom, and could easily be an in law quarters.

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

If you plan to buy your first home in Albuquerque, you're certainly not alone. There's a growing trend this year in home sales across the nation - first-time home buyers. In fact, last month in June, first-time home buyers made up 35% of home sales nationwide.

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) had this to say about the rise in first-time home buyers:

“The share of first-time buyers increased in March through June—right into the heart of the pandemic period and the surge in unemployment—and is now trending higher than the 29% to 32% average in past years since 2012.”

Why are there more new home buyers?

NAR continues to say:

“The major factor is, arguably, low mortgage rates. As of the week ended July 16, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate dropped to 2.98%. With rates so low that are locked in under a 30-year mortgage, the typical mortgage payment, estimated at $1,036, has fallen below the median rent, at $1,045. For potential home buyers who were thinking of purchasing a home anyway before the pandemic outbreak and who are likely to remain employed, the low mortgage rate may be the clincher.”

These record-low mortgage rates are just too enticing for many people who are currently renting, especially since monthly mortgage payments can be cheaper than renting. According to the Q2 2020 Housing Trends Report from the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB):

“Eighty-four percent of Gen Z’s planning to buy a home are first timers, compared to 68% of Millennials, 52% of Gen X’s, and 21% of Boomers. Looking at results by region shows that over 60% of prospective buyers in the South are buying a home for the first time.”

The issue for most first-time home buyers is that they don't understand the home buying process. NeighborWorks America had this to say about this challenge:

“Homeownership is a particular challenge for many, despite high levels of interest. Americans believe there are many benefits to homeownership and half of non-owners will seek information about the process in the next few years…a large share of non-owners say the process is too challenging and only a minority know where to find advice if they wanted it. And although many would seek the guidance of community and non-profit programs, only one in three non-owners are aware of such services.”

If you plan to buy your first home in Albuquerque, you don't have to worry about having the help you need to buy the perfect home for your needs. The Sandi Pressley team is here to help. We've been helping people buy homes in Albuquerque and the surrounding communities for decades. In fact, Sandi has been rated the #1 Top Producing Realtor for 34 consecutive years. You can count on Sandi Pressley and her team to help you understand the home buying process. Contact us today to start your journey to owning your first home in Albuquerque!

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

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

1393 TIFFANY Lane SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124  $300,000

3 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms (2 full, 0 half) / 1846 Square Feet

TRINITY ESTATES! Open floor plan with lots of living space featuring wood ceilings, vigas, nichos, Kiva fireplace, skylights, REFRIGERATED AIR! Kitchen features beautiful cabinetry, granite countertops, island, recessed lighting, gas cooktop, double oven, walk-in pantry, breakfast bar & bkfst nook with a bay of windows! Master suite features double doors, sep shower, jetted tub, his & her vanities and two closets! Secondary bdrs and full bath on its own wing! Private backyard, beautifully landscaped with turf, shrubs, flowers and trees, covered patio and walled for privacy. Garage has separate, enclosed room for easy storage. Close to shopping, restaurants, parks and easy access to Albuquerque!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

Do you want to buy a home in Albuquerque, but don't have the best credit or a high income? Don't give up, because your goal of owning a home can become a reality, even in these uncertain times.

If you don't qualify for a conventional mortgage, you may qualify for one of a couple of government-backed loan options – the FHA Home loan and the USDA Rural Development loan. These loan options were created years ago by the Federal Governmebt to help low- and middle-income earners achieve homeownership. That means you don’t need a high paying job, a lot of money in the bank, or the best credit to qualify. You just need to show that you have a steady income that has lasted at least 2 years.

There are ups and downs to both of these loans. Here's an overview of what is required and what they offer.

Down payment requirements

FHA Loan

With the FHA loan, you only need 3.5% of the purchase price for the down payment. For example, that’s $3,500 for a $100,000 loan. If you’re having trouble coming up with the down payment, FHA allows your down payment to be a gift from your parents or another relative.

USDA Rural Development

With this loan, you don't need a down payment. You can finance up to 100% of the property value, which, in some cases, can be above the home’s purchase price. In these cases, you can finance your closing costs as well. So if the property value is $5000 above the purchase price, you can borrow that extra money, as long as you apply it to the closing costs, which can run into the thousands of dollars. 

TAKEAWAY: If you have little cash on hand, the Rural Development loan offers more flexibility.

Income Requirements

USDA Loan

USDA Rural Development loan income limits vary by location and household size. For the majority of U.S. counties, USDA loan income limits are $82,700 for 1-4 household members and $109,150 for 5 or more.

USDA Rural Development

The Rural Development loan was created to help individuals with a modest income buy a home. In order to satisfy this goal, the USDA requires that lenders certify the applicant’s household income to ensure it does not exceed the income limit for their area.

TAKEAWAY: If your income is above the USDA Rural Development income limits, you’ll need to go with the FHA loan.

Mortgage Insurance

Both loans require mortage insurance in the form of funding/guarantee fees paid up front. You'll also be required to pay a monthly fee which is rolled up into your mortgage payment.

Mortgage insurance is considerably higher for the FHA loan as compared to the Rural Development loan. FHA upfront insurance is 1.75% of the total loan; the monthly insurance is usually 0.85% of the loan amount. USDA upfront insurance is 1.0% of the total loan; the monthly insurance is just 0.35%.

If you're borrowing $150,000, this is what you can expect to pay:

Loan

FHA

USDA

Upfront Fee

$2,625

$1,500

Monthly Fee

$128

$53

You’ll owe this amount as part of monthly mortgage payment

 

$229

 

$150

Even though you have to pay extra for mortgage insurance, it's what allows you to buy a home with a lower down payment.

Location

The Rural Development loan was created to help people buy homes in areas such as those surrounding Albuquerque with lower populations. Properties in almost every area of the country outside major metropolitan centers can be purchased with a USDA loan. 

If you would like to learn more about FHA and USDA loan and how they can help you realize your dream of buying a home in Albuquerque, contact us today! 

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

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

4332 ALTURA VISTA Lane NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110  $230,000

3 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms (2 full, 1 half) / 1662 Square Feet

Fantastic location in desirable gated community of Altura Village! Conveniently located close to UNM, Nob Hill, UNM Hospital, Altura Park! 3BDR/2.5BATH plus Loft! Light, bright & open with lots of living space in the great room. Open kitchen with sunny breakfast nook, gas stove, built-microwave, refrigerator, washer & dryer stay! 3 large bedrooms upstairs! Master bdr has a wall of windows, 2 walk-in closets, garden tub/shower, dual sink vanity and tile flooring in bath. Private gated community minutes away from shopping malls, Uptown & restaurants.

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

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The Sandi Pressley Team
Coldwell Banker Legacy
10400 Academy Rd. NE Suite 100
Albuquerque NM 87111
505-980-2999
505-263-2173 / 505 293-3700
Fax: 505-212-0729

Quick links to this site are also SandiSells.net or SandiSellsHomes.com