Real Estate Information Archive

Thank you so much for the privilege and opportunity of earning your business. I know you have so many choices when partnering with a real estate agent or team to find your perfect home in the greater Albuquerque New Mexico area and we are truly honored to be considered in your search.

Here are some of the most important reasons home buyers choose to work with New Mexico's and Albuquerque's #1 Top producing broker, myself, Sandi Pressley and my extraordinary team of agents. There are so many things that separate me from other brokers, these will just detail a few:

• I care more about my clients than my commissions (paid by the sellers not by you the buyer) My tireless dedication, integrity and exceptional customer service distinguishes me from all the other Real Estate brokers which is demonstrated by 51% of my business coming from very satisfied customer referrals! We will have your back from start to closing!

• I am the only broker in the history of New Mexico to have been the #1 Top Producing Broker both in the number of homes sold and in total sales volume for 37 consecutive years! What this means for you is that no other broker is more effective at achieving a successful purchase than I am. Plus it proves that I have achieved excellence, consistency, and attention to numerous details in every real estate transaction.

• I am ranked 5th in the Nation for Coldwell Banker.

• My ability to negotiate is second to none. This is what you need to get the best possible price on your home purchase and get to a successful closing!

• My name and network in this industry carries weight! I get things done that no one else can! When exceptions are needed or we need top priority attention, I can get that accomplished!

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

• My ability to close is second to none! Regardless of the challenges that can develop from contract to closing 99% of every sale we get under contract makes it to a successful closing!

• Your home purchase is way too important to entrust to an individual. This is why I have an entire Ninja trained team from prelisting/to listing/to closing to handle your transaction with “TLC” all the way to closing and beyond! Our closing team consists of a licensed broker that has been working for me for 28+ years plus her assistant. They work 60+ hours a week managing the arduous and critical details to insure all the many deadlines and contingencies are micro-managed to achieve a successful closing. Without this attention to detail a contract can fall apart!

• High Energy, Tireless Drive, Vast Experience, Enthusiasm and Dedication are key and important qualities that I am sure you recognize are important assets that I would bring to you as your Broker.

There are so many more points of difference, but I hope this suffices. I trust you will make the best decision for you and hire me & my team to get you to a successful closing! Please call anytime to discuss further details 505-980-2999. Thank you again for the opportunity to serve you.

~ Sandi Pressley

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

12409 PINO AVENUE NE, ALBUQUERQUE, NM

A true one-story gem tucked in North Albuquerque Acres on 1.15 acres. Enjoy Mountain views and the city lights within your private oasis. This spacious home offers 2 living spaces, Chef's kitchen with stainless steel double ovens, gas cooktop, mini wine fridge, electric hotplate, expansive granite countertops. Opens to family room with wood burning stove. Spacious Primary suite, large walk-in closet with dressing area. Features include Sunroom access to a gazebo in the backyard, office, oversized laundry room with storage. Detached 2 car garage with electric. Gated entry into property. Room for RV. Nature brings serenity to this home with the vibrant New Mexico sky. Discover the wildlife such as deer, rabbits, hummingbirds & squirrels. Close to shopping, restaurants, trails, mountain biking, tram, I25.

GET YOUR MORNING INSPIRATION WITH THE Sandi Pressley TEAM!

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!

Whether you're in the market for a mid-priced home packed with features, or a condo in a quiet neighborhood, we have the perfect homes for you. These outstanding homes are ready to move in and are sure to sell fast!

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

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3301 Monroe Street NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110

A great home in a great location at a great price! Super cute condo tucked away in a quiet neighborhood yet centrally located right in the heart of the city. Recently refreshed with NEW carpet and paint in neutral tones, new commodes, and new upstairs baseboards. Complete with washer and dryer, this home is move-in ready. TWO primary suites upstairs as each bedroom has its own bathroom, with a guest bath downstairs. Lovely fenced outdoor patio with covered designated parking directly behind. Light and bright with big south-facing windows upstairs and down. HOA covers exterior, roof, front and common area landscaping, and water. Laminate and tile flooring downstairs with extra under-stair storage. Easy living, and your pet can come too!

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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.

When obtaining a home loan in Albuquerque, selecting a lender is the first step. A lender can refer to all parties involved in the loan process from the borrower's perspective, but in actuality, they do not handle all aspects.

Mortgage servicers may take over the loan after closing and handle day-to-day administration until it is paid off. Mortgage lenders can be a group of investors or a financial institution that provides funds to borrowers for purchasing or refinancing homes.

Some lenders service their loans, but most are too small to make a profit doing so, which is where a loan servicing company becomes part of the situation.

The Role of a Mortgage Lender

Mortgage lenders are responsible for the origination of loans. This process involves working with homeowners to select a loan, taking their application, and processing the loan. Additionally, the origination process includes underwriting the loan, creating the necessary documents, funding the mortgage, and ultimately closing it.

After your loan closes, the administration is needed on an ongoing basis until it’s paid off. This administration is known as servicing.

When you obtain a mortgage, the lender may transfer it to another company for loan servicing. This transfer may occur without prior notification, but the loan documents should indicate whether it will occur.

What Is a Mortgage Servicer?

Mortgage servicers are responsible for taking over tasks that lenders may leave unfinished. As a borrower, it is important to note that the servicing of a loan includes payment processing, which means that you are paying the servicer directly. Additionally, mortgage servicing involves keeping track of loan balances and interest payments. It is worth noting that your servicer will provide you with tax forms that show how much interest you have paid each year.

The servicer is responsible for managing your escrow accounts, which includes collecting and paying your homeowners' insurance and property taxes. In the event of a loan default, the servicer initiates the foreclosure process.

Additionally, servicers can provide loss mitigation services to help borrowers avoid foreclosure. If you wish to cancel your mortgage insurance and have a loan servicer, you must go through them to make the request.

Mortgage servicers can report the payment history on loans to credit bureaus, so if you think there’s been an error, you will contact this company rather than your lender.

Finding the Servicer on Your Mortgage

It's common to have multiple servicers throughout the life of a home loan. To find out who your servicer is, check your mortgage statement or contact your original lender. Another option is to use the Mortgage Electronic Registration System (MERS), which allows you to search for your loan online using your property address, name, or Social Security number.

When a mortgage is transferred to a servicer, the terms of the loan remain the same. The only difference is that you may receive a new account number and your payments will be sent to a different entity than your original lender.

When it comes to mortgages, your servicer can greatly impact your experience as a borrower. A good servicer will have reliable customer service and be easily accessible for any questions or concerns you may have. Unfortunately, you don't have the option to choose your servicer or switch to a different one. Your only option is to file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau or work with a lender that services its own loans if you're unhappy with your servicer.

Finally, when applying for a mortgage, lenders must provide a Mortgage Servicing Disclosure Statement. This statement informs you whether the lender plans to service the loan themselves or transfer it. It is a legal requirement for lenders to provide this information.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

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

If you're in the market for the perfect home for sale in Rio Rancho or Albuquerque, here are two HOT listings ready for your inspection. These homes offer outstanding ammenities and prime locations in the Albuquerque area.

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

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8104 Eagle Rock Avenue NE, Albuquerque, NM 87122

Impressive, Impeccable, irresistible . This amazing home will really wow you.With s/s appliances, updated HVAC, remodeled bathrooms (frameless shower), kitchen, 21' tile floors, downstair 4th room (office with French doors),plantation shutters, barn doors (to oversized master closet, beautifully hand crafted custom stair case. This is your next home. Enjoy.

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.

Moving to or from Albuquerque, or anywhere, can be expensive. But there are ways to make it more affordable. This blog post will give you tips on how to move smarter and save money during the relocation process. From packing supplies and organizing your belongings, to finding the best moving companies and storage options, these tips will help you make your move as smooth and affordable as possible.

When it comes to moving, being smart and savvy about your expenses can make all the difference. To save money and reduce stress, it's important to plan ahead and look for ways to streamline the process.

Here are a few tips to help you move smarter and save money:

Set a Moving Budget

Moving can be expensive, but when done correctly, it doesn't need to break the bank. With the right budgeting and planning, you can make relocation affordable and still move smart.

Before you start packing, take some time to plan out your budget and make sure you have enough money to cover the expenses that come with moving.

Start by creating a budget that includes expenses like rental trucks, packing supplies, and movers. Estimate how much you'll need to cover the cost of fuel and lodging on the way to your new home. If you have the time, try to look for money-saving opportunities like borrowing packing supplies from friends and family, or renting a truck for a cheaper rate.

As you plan, remember to factor in the cost of moving insurance, storage units, and any other services you may need. Once you've created a budget, you'll be able to make the most of your money, ensuring a smooth and efficient move.

Downsizing Before the Move

Moving can seem like a daunting and expensive experience, but it doesn't have to be. Downsizing before the move is an effective way to save money and make the process less stressful.

Start by sorting through your belongings and eliminating items you no longer need or use. This can be done through donations, consignment, or even a yard sale. By getting rid of unnecessary items, you will be able to reduce the amount of furniture and boxes that need to be transported to your new home.

Additionally, you can save money on packing materials and moving costs. Finally, by downsizing before the move, you can save time, energy, and money on the entire relocation process. So, if you're looking to move smarter and save, downsizing is a great starting point.

DIY Strategies for Relocation Savings

Moving to a new home can be expensive and stressful, but there are plenty of DIY strategies to help keep costs down and make relocation more affordable. Start by scheduling a move during the off-season, when moving companies are less busy and more likely to offer discounts.

You can also save money by packing and unpacking your own boxes, and renting or borrowing a moving truck instead of hiring a professional moving company. When it comes to furniture, consider selling large pieces and buying smaller, more affordable replacements at your new home.

Finally, make sure to research any potential new neighborhoods to make sure you are getting the best deal on rent or a mortgage. With a little planning and research, you can move smarter and save money on your next relocation.

Tips for Finding Affordable Movers or Rental Trucks

Whether you are moving across Albuquerque or across the country, there are ways to save money and make your move more affordable. To start, it's important to plan ahead and compare prices between several different movers or rental truck companies.

One great way to save money is to look for discounts or special offers. You can also save money by packing your items yourself and using your own supplies. Additionally, packing and loading on a weekday can often result in lower rates than weekend rates.

Finally, it's important to research the company you choose and double-check their experience and customer reviews before signing a contract. With a little bit of planning and research, you can move smarter and save money on your relocation.

When it comes to relocating, it can become quite expensive. But there are ways to make the process more affordable. 

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Phenomenal private North Valley oasis located on one of the most coveted streets in Los Ranchos. Entering this magnificent property will take your breath away. Single level. Elegantly and completely renovated in 2018. The entire home encompasses high end finishes, impeccably done with exquisite taste. Two very large living areas, options for formal and casual dining, tremendous windows with exclusive custom drapery. Kahrs white oak wood floors. Chef's kitchen with massive island, custom cabinetry, quartz counter tops and high end appliances. Each bedroom has its own bath and walk-in closet. Separate office with gorgeous builtins. Grounds are simply stunning. The property is gated and fully fenced. Mature trees, fruit and nut bearing, beautiful grass. 

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

If you plan on buying a home in Albuquerque, you likely will need a mortgage. The process of finding a mortgage might involve the assistance of a mortgage broker. An experienced mortgage broker can help you secure the best interest rates and terms. There is, however, still some residual doubt about working with these professionals after the 2008 real estate market crash.

There is a possibility that a mortgage broker is not really looking out for your best interests. It is true that working with someone who is experienced and ethical is an asset. Using a mortgage broker has its pros and cons, just as anything else.

Mortgage brokers are an alternative to banks. Banks and mortgage companies are direct lenders. The financial institutions in this category originate, process, and fund loans. Money is lent by the company handling your loan process.

A mortgage broker is a middleman, and the goal is for the broker to match you with the right lender for your needs. Brokers work with wholesale mortgage companies, so they’re your primary and unified point of contact to compare multiple loan options.

The following are some of the pros and cons of working with mortgage brokers.

What Are the Pros of a Mortgage Broker?

When you work with a broker, benefits include:

Brokers have access to interest rates and loan program options from various lenders, so they might be able to get you a more specialized product that’s well-suited to your needs.

In addition to everything else that comes with buying a house, comparing lenders is time-consuming. Brokers can help manage the legwork, and they can also make sure you steer clear of lenders with adverse payment terms that might be otherwise buried in the fine print. While brokers do a lot of the heavy lifting, so to speak, you still need to do some of your own research before meeting with someone so that you’re going to be better prepared to assess the skills and qualifications of the broker.

Since brokers work exclusively with lenders, they might have better access. Some lenders won’t let you directly get in contact for a retail mortgage.

Brokers can get special rates if they generate a lot of business for a lender, and you wouldn’t be able to do this on your own.

Brokers might be able to manage the fees. There are a lot of fees that come with getting a mortgage, including application, origination, and appraisal fees. A mortgage broker may be able to negotiate with lenders to waive some or all of these, which can end up saving you thousands of dollars.

What Are the Downsides of Working With a Mortgage Broker?

There are some downsides you have to weigh that come with working with a broker.

Mortgage brokers aren't guaranteed to act in your best interests. Brokers earn a commission when they refer business to lenders, so if you were working with someone, they could steer you toward a loan that's higher than you want. After the 2008 housing market crash, many brokers earned a negative reputation for maximizing their own compensation.

Some mortgage brokers may offer you the same terms and rates that you’d get from the lender anyway. You should probably still shop around to make sure what you’re getting from a broker is the best deal, increasing the amount of work you need to do and negating some of the benefits of working with a broker in the first place.

A mortgage broker might be paid by a lender or by you. In such a case, you might also need to inquire about whether you are being guided toward a loan that ends up being more expensive just so the broker can earn a higher commission. It is essential that you know all fees upfront before you agree to anything or work with a broker.

For many buyers, particularly since you have access to online comparison tools, a broker might not be worth it as you secure a mortgage.

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