Real Estate Information Archive

June 20, 2025, marks the summer solstice — the longest day of the year and peak of Summer. So, I guess summer is all downhill from here. There's something magical about summer in Albuquerque that goes beyond our famous blue skies and stunning sunsets. Suppose you've been thinking about selling your home. In that case, you're sitting in the sweet spot of what many consider the golden season for Albuquerque real estate.

While other markets across the country may exhibit different seasonal patterns, Albuquerque has its unique rhythm that savvy sellers have learned to navigate. The Sandi Pressley Team has observed this pattern unfold year after year, and the data tells a compelling story that every homeowner should understand.

The Sandi Pressley Team has lived and worked in Albuquerque for a long time and can confirm that the Summer real estate surge is real. Picture this: it's early June, and families across Albuquerque are starting to think about their next chapter. Kids are finishing up the school year, the weather is perfect for house hunting, and there's an energy in the air that doesn't exist during other times of the year. Currently, a perfect storm of factors comes together to create what we call the summer selling surge.

The numbers don't lie. Historically, homes listed between June and August in Albuquerque tend to receive more showings, sell faster, and often achieve higher final prices than those listed during slower months. Part of this comes down to simple supply and demand. When more serious buyers are actively looking, sellers naturally benefit from increased competition for their property.

But there's more to the story than just buyer activity. Summer in Albuquerque showcases our city at its absolute best. Our neighborhoods come alive with lush landscaping, perfectly manicured yards, and that distinctive Southwestern charm that photographs beautifully. When your home is competing in the marketplace, these visual advantages can make all the difference.

For Albuquerque families, timing is everything. The school calendar drives much of the summer real estate momentum in Albuquerque. Families with children naturally prefer to move during the summer break, as it avoids the disruption of switching schools mid-year, creating a focused period of serious, motivated buyers, ready to make quick decisions.

These aren't tire-kickers or casual browsers. Summer buyers often have specific timelines they need to meet, whether it's starting a new job in the fall, getting kids settled before school starts, or simply taking advantage of their home sale proceeds. When you list your home during peak season, you're putting it in front of buyers who are genuinely ready to make a purchase.

The Sandi Pressley Team has seen this pattern repeatedly. Families start their search in earnest around Memorial Day, ramp up their activity through June and July, and often want to close by late August or early September. If your home isn't on the market during this window, you're essentially invisible to this motivated buyer pool.

Let's discuss something unique to our high desert location. Our weather works in your favor. While much of the country is dealing with extreme heat, humidity, or unpredictable storms, Albuquerque summers offer ideal conditions for home showings and moving.

Buyers can comfortably tour homes throughout the day without worrying about scorching temperatures or afternoon thunderstorms disrupting their plans. Your outdoor spaces – patios, gardens, and courtyards that are such an integral part of Southwestern living – can be adequately appreciated and enjoyed during showings.

This weather advantage extends to the practical aspects of selling as well. Professional photography, virtual tours, and drone footage all benefit from our clear skies and excellent natural lighting. The Sandi Pressley Team has found that homes photographed during Albuquerque's summer months look more appealing and inviting in marketing materials.

Here's something many sellers don't realize. While summer brings more buyers to the market, it doesn't necessarily flood the market with competing inventory. Many homeowners still operate under the outdated belief that spring is the only time to sell, which means summer often offers a sweet spot of high demand, manageable competition, and an inventory.

The Sandi Pressley Team tracks market inventory levels closely, and we've observed that well-priced, properly marketed homes during summer months often face less direct competition than they would during the traditional spring rush. In our experience, this can translate into faster sales and better negotiating positions for sellers who understand the timing.

We find that many sellers aren't aware of the psychological component of summer real estate in Albuquerque, which shouldn't be overlooked. You can't ignore the fact that buyers tend to be more optimistic and decisive during the warmer months. Our job when marketing your home is to leverage this fact so they can envision themselves hosting summer gatherings on your patio, enjoying the beautiful New Mexico evenings, and making the most of your outdoor spaces.

This emotional connection is powerful and often leads to stronger offers. When buyers can picture their life in your home during its most appealing season, they're more likely to stretch their budget or move quickly to secure the property.

One of the biggest mistakes we at the Sandi Pressley Team see is sellers waiting for perfect market conditions or the "ideal" time to list. The reality is that summer in Albuquerque consistently provides some of the best-selling conditions you'll see all year.

If you've been on the fence about selling, consider this: every week you wait during peak season is a week of prime buyer activity you're missing. Families looking to move before school starts won't wait for you to get ready – they'll buy the available home when they're prepared to purchase.

Market conditions can shift, interest rates can change, and inventory levels can fluctuate. Still, the fundamental advantages of summer selling in Albuquerque remain consistent year after year. The Sandi Pressley Team has guided countless sellers through successful summer sales, and the pattern is remarkably predictable.

It's essential to create a specific "Summer Success" marketing strategy for your home, because summer buyers have different priorities and expectations than buyers during other seasons. Timing your home sale to capitalize on Albuquerque's summer selling season is only one aspect of successfully selling your home in the Summer. Many sellers overlook the importance of understanding how to position their home for this specific market. You need to tailor your photography, digital, and traditional marketing to go beyond listing facts and connect with buyers' lifestyles and imaginations, so they can picture themselves living in your home.

They want to see how your outdoor spaces function, how your home stays cool during warm days, and how your property capitalizes on our beautiful climate. The Sandi Pressley Team knows exactly how to showcase these features and position your home to appeal to the specific interests and needs of summer buyers.

Professional staging during summer months focuses on creating that effortless indoor-outdoor living experience that Albuquerque buyers crave. Our Marketing strategies, both traditional and digital, emphasize the lifestyle advantages your home offers during our prime season. We calibrate every aspect of the selling process to capitalize on summer market dynamics.

The clock is ticking, so if you have a case of FOMO, you should. As we move through late June, the summer selling window is already opening wide. Many families are actively looking now so they can settle and get everything in place for the kids before school starts. The buyers who want to enjoy their new outdoor spaces this summer are scheduling showings this week.

The Sandi Pressley Team understands that timing in real estate isn't just about market conditions – it's about positioning yourself to capture the attention of the right buyers when they're most motivated to act. Summer in Albuquerque provides that perfect alignment of buyer motivation, ideal conditions, and lifestyle appeal that makes for successful home sales.

If you've been considering selling your home, now is the time. The summer market won't wait, and neither should you. The Sandi Pressley Team has the experience, local knowledge, and proven strategies to help you take advantage of everything Albuquerque's peak selling season has to offer.

Don't let this summer pass by wondering what might have been. Your home could be the one that captures the attention of motivated summer buyers who are ready to make their move to Duke City.

Ready to make your move this summer? Sandi Pressley and The Sandi Pressley Team can help you navigate Albuquerque's peak selling season with confidence and success.

Contact us today:  Phone: (505) 263-2173  Website: https://www.albuquerquehomesolutions.com

Let's discuss how to position your home for summer success in Albuquerque's dynamic real estate market.

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK

3 Maize Trail, Placitas, NM 87043

Anasazi Trails Custom Home with Stunning VIEWS, Situated on an approximately 1.7 Acre cul-de-sac lot! 4th bedroom potential as there is a large study/office with a closet! Bring your most discerning buyer to this beautifully maintained property which features a split master floorplan with exceptional appointments throughout, including Pella windows w/custom Hunter Douglas window treatments; diamond plaster wall accents; exposed beamed ceilings with tongue & grove, latillas; bancos & nichos; custom gas log Kiva fireplaces & so much more! The grand entrance through stunning Artisan double doors, opens to the elegant formal dining room-ideal for entertaining; continue down the hall to the lavish Living/Great Room with raised ceilings, a corner Kiva fireplace, & wall of windows

SEE ALBUQUERQUE & UNM HOMES FOR SALE    SEE OUR FEATURED LISTINGS 

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Hello, Albuquerque friends and neighbors! Sandi Pressley here. Today, I want to discuss something that affects every Albuquerque homeowner: our beautiful desert communities' limited water resources and new regulations impacting how we buy and sell homes.

As someone helping Albuquerque families find their perfect homes for over two decades, I've seen many changes in our real estate landscape. Still, these new water conservation measures might be among the most significant for buyers and sellers.

If you haven't heard, the Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority implemented its enhanced conservation program last month. My team and I have been fielding dozens of questions about what this means for real estate transactions. Let me break it down for you in plain language—no technical jargon, I promise!

First, the pre-sale water audit requirement is the most significant change affecting sellers. Before listing your home for sale, you must schedule a water efficiency inspection evaluating everything from your irrigation system to indoor fixtures. I recently walked through this process with a client in the High Desert neighborhood. While it initially seemed daunting, we discovered it was actually relatively straightforward. The inspector identified several simple upgrades that helped them comply with the new regulations and will save the new homeowners nearly $300 annually on their water bills – a great selling point!

Being proactive about these audits can become a marketing advantage for sellers. When my team lists a home that's already passed its water audit with flying colors, we prominently feature that "Water-Wise Certified" status in our listings. In our increasingly eco-conscious market, buyers respond positively to homes that have already addressed water efficiency.

On the buyer side, these regulations are changing how we evaluate properties. When I toured a charming North Valley adobe last week with clients, they were specifically asking about the xeriscaping requirements and native plant landscaping. The property's existing high-water-use lawn would need substantial retrofitting to meet the new standards, which affected our negotiation strategy. We factored those conversion costs into our offer, and the sellers understood this new reality.

The turf limitations have been particularly impactful. Properties can now have 20% of their outdoor space dedicated to high-water grass species. For many older homes in established neighborhoods like Ridgecrest or Nob Hill, this means significant landscaping changes before selling. My team now regularly connects sellers with local landscapers specializing in xeriscaping conversions that maintain aesthetic appeal while reducing water usage.

I've been incredibly impressed with how these regulations are spurring innovation. Last month, I sold a home in the Volterra community where the sellers had installed a greywater system that channels washer water to their fruit trees. This feature became a central selling point, and the home received multiple offers within days of listing. Buyers are increasingly valuing these thoughtful water-conservation features.

The regulations have even more implications for those considering new construction. All new builds must now incorporate rainwater harvesting systems and meet stricter standards for appliance efficiency. I recently toured the latest development in Mesa del Sol with clients, and the builder walked us through their comprehensive water management approach. The homes there are gorgeous examples of how water efficiency can seamlessly integrate into modern design.

The financial aspects of these changes are also worth noting because you may run into upfront costs to meet the requirements. However, some financial incentives are available. The Water Authority offers a rebate program that could offer up to $2,500 for qualifying upgrades, and the City of Albuquerque also offers a sustainability tax credit that helps offset costs. My team has helped numerous clients navigate this paperwork to maximize their savings.

Some clients have worried that these water conservation measures might make our desert homes feel less lush and inviting, but I've found the opposite true. Yesterday, I showed a beautifully redesigned property in Four Hills that replaced thirsty Kentucky bluegrass with a stunning arrangement of desert plants, decorative gravel, and strategic shade trees. The outdoor living space was more usable and distinctly Southwestern – precisely what many of our buyers seek when choosing Albuquerque.

The timing of these changes is quite fortunate. As our spring market heats up, homes that comply with the new water standards stand out. I've observed that water-compliant homes are selling on average, 12 days faster than those requiring substantial updates. That time advantage can translate to thousands in your pocket as a seller in our current market.

These regulations sometimes raise concerns about my relocating clients from wetter climates. However, educating them about our unique high desert environment helps them embrace water-wise living. Just last week, I worked with a family moving from Portland who initially wanted a lush, green yard like they had back home. After discussing our water situation and touring some beautifully xeriscaped properties, they fell in love with the distinctive Southwestern aesthetic that makes Albuquerque so unique.

If you're overwhelmed by all these changes, please know that my team and I are here to guide you. We've developed relationships with the top water efficiency experts in town, maintained an updated database of rebate programs, and created a comprehensive checklist to help our clients successfully comply with the new rules.

The Sandi Pressley Team is ready to help. Our deep knowledge of rules and the local market, trusted contractor relationships, and experience can turn a stressful challenge into a successful opportunity. So, if you're considering selling your Albuquerque home and need to prepare for your water audit, or you're in the market to buy and want to understand what these regulations mean for your new home, Give me a call directly at (505) 263-2173, or visit our website: https://www.albuquerquehomesolutions.com/ 

To learn more about how we can make your next real estate transaction flow smoothly – water conservation and all! After all, protecting our precious desert resources and helping you make informed real estate decisions is what we do best. 

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!        

11717 Mountain Road NE, Albuquerque, NM 87112

Happy National Peanut Butter Day! While you make your kid's school lunches today, have you ever considered the fascinating journey of this beloved school lunch staple? Let's dive into the surprisingly rich history of peanut butter—a tale that spans centuries and continents. 

Did you know peanut butter has ancient beginnings that pre-date its 1884 U.S. patent.? While we often think of peanut butter as a modern creation, its roots stretch back to the ancient Aztecs and Incas. These civilizations were grinding peanuts into a paste long before European explorers entered the Americas. However, this early version differed from the smooth, spreadable concoction we know today.

So, what was the path to modern peanut butter? The contemporary era of peanut butter began in the late 19th century, with several key people contributing to it's its development:

In 1884, Marcellus Gilmore Edson of Montreal became the first to patent peanut paste. His version was quite different from today's peanut butter – it was created as a nutritious protein source for people who couldn't chew solid food.

Dr. Ambrose Straub of St. Louis patented the first peanut butter-making machine in 1903, revolutionizing the production process. However, perhaps the most famous name associated with peanuts is George Washington Carver. While he didn't invent peanut butter, he developed hundreds of uses for peanuts and helped establish them as a crucial crop in the American South.

So, when did the famous brands we know get started? The early 1900s saw the emergence of the major peanut butter brands we know today. Joseph Rosefield invented partial hydrogenation in 1922, and it was a game-changer because it prevented oil separation and gave peanut butter that smooth, creamy texture we loved as children and still love today. This innovative new process led to the founding of Peter Pan peanut butter in 1928 and Skippy in 1932.

Peanut Butter is battle-tested. During World War II, it became an essential source of protein for our American soldiers. It was an ideal military food because of its high nutritional value, long shelf life, and relatively low cost. This period cemented peanut butter's place in American culture, leading to its worldwide popularity.

Check out these Peanut Butter Fun Facts 

• You need 540 peanuts to make one 12-ounce jar of peanut butter

• Americans eat enough peanut butter to make 10 billion peanut butter and jelly sandwiches every year.

• The world's largest peanut butter cup was created in 2014, weighing 440 pounds

• Astronauts have taken peanut butter into space since the early days of space travel

What side of the great Peanut Butter debate (smooth versus crunchy ) do you stand on? Peanut butter lovers have debated smooth versus crunchy for generations. Surveys consistently show that smooth peanut butter is more popular, typically winning by a 60-40 margin. However, some interesting demographic patterns emerge: adults prefer crunchy more than children, and coastal regions show a slightly higher preference for smooth compared to inland areas.

So how has modern innovation impacted the future of peanut butter? Today's peanut butter market has expanded far beyond the traditional jar. We're seeing innovative products like powdered peanut butter, organic varieties, and specialty flavors infused with everything from chocolate to spices. The focus on natural ingredients has increased the popularity of fresh-ground peanut butter stations in grocery stores and "just peanuts" varieties without added oils or stabilizers.

The peanut butter industry continues to grow, generating celebration-worthy numbers, and global market values are expected to reach new heights in the coming years. Did you know that in our Nation, the average person consumes more than three pounds of peanut butter every year?

So, as you celebrate National Peanut Butter Day today, remember you're not just enjoying a tasty spread but participating in a culinary tradition that spans cultures and centuries. Peanut butter is one of humanity's most beloved inventions, whether you prefer it smooth or crunchy, in a sandwich or straight from the jar (we won't judge!).

All this writing about peanut butter has made me hungry for a PB&J! I’ll wrap this up and go down to the kitchen.

Whether you're a long-time resident looking to sell your home or considering making Albuquerque your new home, The Sandi Pressley Team can help. Give us a call. (505)263-2173  

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK

1502 EAGLE RIDGE ROAD NE, ALBUQUERQUE, NM 87122

MOUNTAIN VIEWS! Beautiful home in Sandia Heights with unparalleled views of the Sandia Mountains! This thoughtfully designed home has 3 bedrooms, 3 baths + a study. The kitchen and a large view deck are on the main floor along with a large living room and fireplace. 2 bedrooms + a study are downstairs, with the primary suite, walk-in closet and viewing deck upstairs. The carpets are wool throughout the home and natural wood floors. Excellent school district, and close to hiking, biking, and beauty. Schedule a showing today!

GET INSPIRED WITH THE Sandi Pressley TEAM!

Did you know that your primary bedroom can make or break the sale of your home? Our stunning desert views and unique architecture set us apart. In Albuquerque, creating the perfect primary bedroom retreat is about capturing that special Southwest magic while giving buyers what they want in 2025.

Why Your Primary Bedroom Matters More Than Ever These days, buyers look at master bedrooms differently. After all those years of working from home, people want more than just a place to sleep – they're dreaming of a true sanctuary. And let me tell you, in our Albuquerque market, a well-designed primary bedroom can return up to 80% of your renovation investment.

What's Hot in Albuquerque Master Bedrooms for 2025. Gone are the stark white walls and generic design choices. This year, we're seeing colors that celebrate our high desert home. Rich terracotta and warm adobe tones are making a huge comeback, especially when paired with those gorgeous blue accents that mirror our famous New Mexico skies. And you know what? Buyers love it.

Natural materials are stealing the show, too. Those beautiful vigas and latillas that are so quintessentially Albuquerque? They're not just for living rooms anymore. More homeowners are incorporating exposed wooden beams in master bedrooms, creating that perfect blend of traditional Southwest style and modern comfort.

Consider updates that make sense to our climate. Let's talk about practical improvements that won't empty your wallet. Window treatments are a big deal in our sunny climate—installing good-quality cellular shades or traditional wooden shutters will cost about $500-1,000. Still, they're worth every penny for temperature control and those intense afternoon sun rays.

A fresh coat of paint in the right desert-inspired colors costs around $400-600 and can completely transform the space. And here's a tip: consider adding a ceiling fan if you don't already have one. At $200-400 installed, it's one of the most cost-effective ways to improve comfort in our arid climate.

Consider adding or enlarging windows to capture those magnificent Sandia Mountain views for more significant updates – buyers will pay a premium for that! While it might cost $2,000-3,000 per window, the impact on your home's value can be significant.

How do you create a perfect Albuquerque ambiance? Do you know what makes our Albuquerque homes unique? It's how we blend indoor and outdoor living. Imagine walking out of your bedroom through your new French doors, onto your private patio, and enjoying your coffee while watching the sun rise over the mountains. That's the kind of lifestyle feature that sells homes in our market.

Storage is another significant consideration but forget about those cookie-cutter closet systems. We're seeing more homeowners incorporate beautiful built-ins inspired by Pueblo architecture. These provide excellent storage and add that authentic New Mexican touch buyers adore.

Making smart financial choices is very important. If you're thinking about financing these updates, you're in luck. Local lenders are offering some great rates on home improvement loans right now. Did you know about Albuquerque's energy efficiency rebates? City rebates can help offset the cost of energy-efficient new windows, insulation, or HVAC upgrades.

Regarding return on investment, focus on improvements that make sense for our climate and lifestyle. Sound insulation, proper ventilation, and thoughtful window placement will all pay dividends, especially during those hot summer months or chilly desert nights.

Think about how you can work with local style. One of the best things about renovating in Albuquerque is our amazing local artisan community. I've seen beautiful, locally crafted, handmade tiles as accent pieces, custom-made wooden furniture, and more. These little details add a warm Southwest flair you can't find anywhere else.

The key is finding the right balance between modern comfort and Southwest charm. A kiva fireplace in the corner might seem like a splurge, but in our market, it's often worth the investment. 

Have you considered how important lighting is in our essential high-altitude environment? Think about placing mirrors across from windows to reflect natural light and to make the space seem larger. Organize your lighting to include table lamps, overhead fixtures, and wall lights. And here's an insider tip: 

In closing, the most important thing to remember about creating a fantastic primary bedroom space is to close Pinterest, Instagram, and social media so you can eliminate the temptation of following every online trend.

Look, I understand that this project can become overwhelming. That's just normal. Are you trying to capture incredible mountain views? Tie in traditional architecture? Or choosing the right colors? Just pick one! Attack this one improvement at a time. Stay focused on the main goal: creating a luxurious and authentically New Mexican space. 

It's about understanding what makes our Albuquerque homes unique and enhancing those features. Don't be afraid to consult with local designers who understand our unique market. After all, your primary bedroom isn't just another room – it's your high desert retreat and that's something worth getting right. Not just for you, but for potential home buyers!

Need more specific advice about updating your primary bedroom? Contact the Sandi Pressley Team  for insights tailored to your vision and budget.

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HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK:

2733 WALSH LOOP SE, RIO RANCHO, NM 87124

Welcome to the sought after community of Cabezon. Freshly painted and ready for you to move in! Great value for this home with a versatile floor plan, two living spaces plus a flex space to use as an office, game room & home gym. Inviting & generous kitchen w/breakfast bar, walk in pantry, abundance of cabinets and counter stop. Room for a coffee station. Stainless appliances all stay with purchase. Four good sized bedrooms, three w/walk in closets. Primary suite offers a separate shower, tub & double vanity. Nice sized backyard, back yard access room for dining under the custom pergola. Excellent-rated elementary school within walking distance. Shopping, restaurants and Intel nearby.

GET YOUR MORNING INSPIRATION WITH THE Sandi Pressley TEAM!

Are you looking for an ideal home in Albuquerque to upgrade your lifestyle? These latest HOT Albuquerque properties are the perfect choice. Both homes offer excepetional features and outstanding locations.

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

LEARN MORE!

7021 CLEARY Loop NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144

Welcome to this home, built in 2020 by Abrazo homes within Lomas Encantadas. This open floor plan concept of living, dining & kitchen offers ideal space for entertaining. Oversized island in the kitchen, add stools for additional seating. Stainless appliances and pantry. Quartz countertops and ample cabinets. Split floorplan, with Primary bedroom and secondary bedrooms separated. 3 car garage! Backyard is an open canvas for your gardens. Neighborhood offers multiple parks/recreation areas, nature trails, and a dog park, with close proximity to 528 & I-25. restaurants, shopping and Breweries. Move in ready means you can transition with ease and enjoy the start of Fall and the Holidays.

LEARN MORE!

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

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

“Fake it till you make it” is what they say in the military. But that saying can also be true of home decor. Today, faux is the way to go when it comes to making your Albuquerque home look like a million bucks. You can create a great-looking space, even if it wasn't built this way, and without spending a lot of money. Many of these items below stand in just as well as the "real stuff," and because they're DIY friendly, they're even more appealing.

Electric fireplaces

A fireplace can help a home feel comfortable and cozy, but not everyone has one built in. Thankfully, electric fireplaces are inexpensive and easy to incorporate into your home.

Electric fireplaces provide an alternative to traditional systems for those who don't have a chimney or who prefer to avoid the hassle of wood burning or gas fireplaces. Installing them is quite easy since all you need is a power outlet and no chimney or venting, although, if you plan to place them in a wall you may need to hire a professional.

Make your fireplace pretty

Installing that fireplace also means trimming it. For some homeowners, Airstone veneers are the smart choice, as they are lighter, durable, and easier to install than traditional stone veneers.

Faux panels

If you would like to redesign a large space, small products may not be the best answer. Faux panels and sidings are made of high-density polyurethane and are modelled from actual rock and stone, so they are lightweight, durable, realistic, and easy to install. The panels can be installed yourself by a homeowner or contractor in a fraction of the cost and time it takes to get a new exterior look for a small investment. These panels could also make an excellent addition to any living space that needs more personality. 

Peel-and-stick wallpaper

It's no longer a novelty to apply peel and stick wallpaper, and it's not just for those who don't like to hang traditional wallpaper. Some people often want to alter thier home's decor, so temporary peel and stick wallpaper can be useful.

Other peel-and-stick options

Getting real stone looks easy with this peel-and-stick option. Unlike wallpaper, the peel-and-stick option gives you materials that look natural in an easy-to-apply, easy-to-manipulate, and easy-to-remove package. It is expensive, so at about $23 per square foot you're not getting a budget answer. However, if you prefer stone but can't handle the hassle of installation, this may be the right option for you.

Quartz countertops

Quartz has become the most popular countertop material on the market today, surpassing granite in popularity. Today's homeowners are going quartz because of the ability to get the look of marble without the high maintenance and dread of a stain or scratch ruining their expensive counters.

Marble backsplash

You can spend thousands of dollars running marble along your kitchen walls. Peel-and-stick vinyl tiles were intended as floor tiles, but at under a dollar each, they're a great option for walls too.

Stencils

Using stencils, you can create the look of Moroccan tile or shiplap, customized furniture and even handmade-looking pillows. You can achieve the look of custom tile in your kitchen, on your floor, or to accent your furniture. Create the look of customized tile in your kitchen, or on your floor, with no need to spend a fortune or undergo an extensive remodeling project.

Depending on the size you require, these tiles are available in 6x6, 8x8, or 12x12. You may also want to check out the furniture stencils that can transform an old piece into something new. 

So when it comes to making your home look great, you really can fake it till you make it!

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

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

VIEWS!! Pleasing, light-filled 5 years young DR Horton, Rose model with a 3 car garage. This spacious home has soaring ceilings, east facing windows to enjoy views of the Sandia Mountains. Open concept floorplan, kitchen, dining, and great room flowing together. Home offers 4 bedrooms, plus an office/craft room/flex space. Kitchen showcases stacked cabinets, pantry, island, room for dining, and ample counter space. Stainless appliances stay! Primary suite is on main floor with a spa like bathroom and attached laundry room. 2nd level welcomes you with a LOFT/2nd living space. 3 more bedrooms, one being a second Primary with private bathroom. Enjoy alfresco dining on the covered patio while gazing out to the Sandi Mountains.

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

The month of July is filled with celebrations and summer fun, but we can’t forget to check off the items on our home checklist for the month. Here’s what you should be mindful of for the month of July:

1. Hang your flag. Show your Independence Day spirit for our country and 4^th of July celebration by displaying your flag. If you don’t have a flagpole or large flag to display, opt for smaller flags in containers in front of your home or porches and decks. Happy 4^th of July!
2. Check your safety devices. It’s so important to check your smoke & carbon monoxide detectors monthly. This includes ensuring the batteries are in good working condition and that you have one in each room of your home. You should also have a fire extinguisher on each level of your home. These should be checked for expiration dates to ensure they are always ready for use.
3. Clean your porch lights. Nothing will dull your porch experience light dirty lights. Take out the glass portion and wash thoroughly. Once dried, put them back in place and put in any lightbulbs that need replacing. For the exterior of the fixture, wipe down gently with a cloth. You’ll have a bright new experience!
4. Carefully check for any holes in your screens. This happens more often than you think. Whether screens pull away from the borders, or holes have been created in the larger part, this allows insects and other critters to enter your home. You can use a patching kit for smaller holes, or you may need to buy screening material and replace the entire screen for larger holes.
5. Make your windows sparkle and shine! Rain, dust, sand and more can wreak havoc on your windows…and it happens very quickly. Take time this month to wash windows and door glass inside and out. A vinegar/water solution works great, or you can opt for a store-bought glass cleaner. Voila, sparkle and shine and a whole new perspective when looking outside.
6. Maintenance of your pool. Besides normal water maintenance to ensure chlorine and bacteria levels stay where they should be, go the extra safety step to ensure children are safely kept away from the water when adults are not around. Drownings happen far to frequently and are very preventable with gates and safety locks. We all want an enjoyable summer in our pools with our family and friends, but also want to protect all our loved ones.
7. Extra care for our furry family members. Summer temperatures can be brutal for all of us, but we have to pay close attention to our pets. Make sure they have an ample supply of water throughout the day and areas to cool off frequently. You’ll also want to keep them off asphalt and cement as temperatures soar. Even when air temperatures are at 80 degrees, asphalt and cement can be at 120 degrees- which is far too hot for their sensitive paws.

Stay tuned for more home maintenance updates in the months to come, real estate round-ups, featured listings and more. If you’re considering listing or purchasing a home in the Albuquerque area, put our experience and expertise to work for you! Contact us here.

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

10516 SUPERNOVA STREET NW, ALBUQUERQUE, NM

Beautiful move in ready home! Fresh paint, flooring and extras, pride of ownership shines throughout! Bright open floor plan with 2 living areas, vaulted ceilings, kitchen is open to large family room. View the balloons and Sandia Mountains from your balcony. Attached 2 car garage plus a bonus garage/workshop in backyard with new epoxy flooring. This home is located in the perfect spot for everything fantastic that is located on the west side of town.

GET YOUR MORNING INSPIRATION WITH THE Sandi Pressley TEAM

You can increase the sale price of your Albuquerque house by staging it for sale. In addition to helping you sell faster, it's an important marketing tool to help you compete at the right price. But cleaning the house and fluffing some pillows is not enough. Organizing, decluttering, repairing, upgrading, and depersonalizing are the keys to this process.

Here's a few tips to get your home ready to sell in Albuquerque.

Living Room

• When placing anything from accent pillows and table lamps, go for symmetry, which is pleasing to the eye.
• Light it up with lamps. Chic lamps provide both added lighting and appealing decor.
• Make that fireplace glow. Scrub away soot stains and replace the old screen.
• Whatever amount of furniture you have in your living room, remove a few pieces to make the room feel spacious.
• Help buyers imagine their life in your home. Set the scene by displaying a board game or tea service on the coffee table, and arrange furniture in conversational groups.

Kitchen

• Clear everything from countertops except one or two decorative items, like a vase of flowers or bowl of fresh fruit.
• Pack up all the dishes except one attractive, matching set. Do the same with glassware, flatware, and cookware, and pare down all other cupboard and drawer items down to the minimum.
• Freshen up and modernize those cabinets with a fresh coat of paint or stain and new hardware.
• Invest some time in evaluating your appliances. Can they be made to look new again with a good scrub? Consider giving it the old college try or replacing it with a new model. Stainless steel is strongly recommended by the Real Estate Staging Association. If you use stainless films, you can get stainless's appearance for the price of a cheap meal.
• Remove those fridge magnets and give the door and handles a good cleaning.

Bedrooms

• Go gender neutral in the master bedroom. Ditch those dainty, floral pillow shams or NASCAR posters.
• Pack up all but the clothes you're wearing this season to make you closets look larger.
• Swap out the motley crew of mismatched hangers in your closet for a set of wooden ones to create a classy, boutique look.
• Put jewelry and other valuables in a safe spot.
• Consider giving extra bedrooms a new identity as a home office, sewing room, or another interesting function.
• Remove televisions or video game consoles from bedrooms to depersonalize and create a serene setting.

Obviously, there are other ways to stage your home for sale. However, with these few tips, you'll be on your way to a faster sale.

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.

There are a lot of beautiful homes in Albuquerque for sale. So when you sell your home, you need to make sure it stands out from all the competition, especially these days. Your porch will be one of first things that potential home buyers in Albuquerque will see, so you want to make sure it welcomes them to their new home. Having an inviting porch is an important part of staging your home so that it sell more quickly. Here's a few ideas that will help your porch stand out and welcome guests and home buyers alike.

1. Plants in the Foreground

You can lead your guests right to your porch with plants and flowers that follow the path to your front door. Pretty flowers can really make a big difference in curb appeal. And for those sitting on the porch, it's also a relaxing scene to look at.

2. A Doormat

This step involves nothing more than replacing that tired old doormat. For a more custom affect, try layering a traditional coir doormat atop a larger striped outdoor rug.

3. A Pair of Chairs

If there's room for it, having two chairs instead of one is more welcoming, as it paints the scene of family and friends spending time on the porch together. Some photos may show a chair on each side of a porch, but that doesn't make sense in real life, unless you want to shout back and forth across the porch. Put them together.

4. Thoughtful Color Coordination

Use the color of your front door or trim as a starting point for choosing a color scheme for your porch. You can then repeat that same hue in the accents, like pillows, cushions, door mat, and flower pots.

5. A Fan

Fans are a great way to deal with the bugs and warm weather, and as such make a great investment. A ceiling fan installed by a professional is an ideal choice, but you could also use a standing or tabletop fan as well.

6. Outdoor Curtains

If your porch is lacking in shade, you can add a set of outdoor curtains to diffuse the sun. You can open and close them as needed, just like indoor curtains. If you choose a color other than white, make sure it's a fade resistant fabric to make sure the colors stay vibrant.

With these tips, you'll be on your way to making your home in Albuquerque stand out from the rest of the pack.

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!

60 SANDIA MOUNTAIN RANCH Drive, Tijeras, NM 87059  $575,000

4 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms (1 full, 2 half) / 4255 Square Feet

Very special mountain home with incredible views, patios and balcony! Well designed floor plan with 3 wings. Master suite retreat with walk-in closet, jetted tub and connecting laundry. Two bedrooms in the second wing with bath and an office or 4th BDR in the third wing. Great room with cozy fireplace, formal dining room with private deck, gourmet kitchen with granite counter tops, SS appliances, wine fridge, gas cooktop, bar, recessed lighting, bkfst nook with amazing views! Special features include an elevator and approx 1500sf of living space; game room, exercise room, media room and workshop!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Many home sellers are understandably concerned about a looming recession and how it will impact their ability to sell their home in Albuquerque. But just because there may be a recession doesn't mean your home won't sell. It just means there are things to consider to make sure your home is as competitive on the market as possible. Right now, we are in what's considered a buyer's market, which means you'll need to do mare to attract buyers.

Here are 3 main factors to look at:

Pricing

Strategically pricing your home for sale in Albuquerque means the difference between making and breaking the sale. In a buyer’s market, getting the price right is critical.

While market value is based on the sales prices of similar homes in your neighborhood, in a buyer’s market it pays to be aware of your competition. This means looking at homes for sale in your area online. If you find one that is priced comparable to yours, you’ve found your main competitor. If it’s in far better condition than yours, you have two choices, upgrade your home similarly, or adjust the price of your home. We can help you decide which of these two choices would be more advantageous.

Flexibility

Due to new rules regarding social distancing, you will need to be more flexible when it comes to showing your home. No matter what, you home should always be kept clean. Photos will need to be taken to show your home online, as more people will be using our website to look at your home. And in the event that your home will be shown in person, you need to be able to make it ready to view and have arrangements to be safely away from your home during a showing.

Concessions

Home buyers can become unreasonable when they know they are in the driver’s seat. They may ask for personal property to be included in the sale, such as furniture or play equipment. They may ask for credit for carpet or vinyl replacement even if there’s not a thing wrong with the existing floorcovering except that the buyer doesn’t like the color or pattern.

There is no rule about how to handle these situations, since just about everything in a home sale is negotiable when it comes to concessions. If it will pave the way to a smooth and quick closing, many homeowners are more than happy to accommodate the buyers’ requests, as long as they’re reasonable.

Unfortunately, you may need to sell your home when the market is stacked against you. Get your price right, be flexible and have plenty of patience and you’ll get through it.

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. Looking for the perfect home for sale in Albuquerque? Our easy-to-use home search tool can help you start the process. Contact us today to help you buy or sell your next home in Albuquerque.

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

10647 SUMMERCREST Drive NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114  $310,000

4 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms (2 full, 1 half) / 2820 Square Feet

VIEWS of the Sandia Mountains!! Beautiful 4BBDR/3BA/3CG home with 3 living spaces! Light, bright and open floor plan with living room, family room and large LOFT!! REFRIGERATED AIR! NEW ROOF! NEW CARPET! Updated flooring! Under stair storage! Kitchen features upgraded raised panel cabinetry with crown molding, granite countertops, LG appliances, tile flooring, recessed lighting, island, walk-in pantry & breakfast nook! Family room features cozy fireplace. Master suite features double door entry, walk-in closet with built-in shelving, dual sink vanity, sep shower and garden tub. Huge backyard with open patio and pergola covered outdoor space for entertaining! Terrific location close to Cottonwood Mall, shopping, restaurants, Rust Medical Center, schools and parks!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team