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Protect your Albuquerque Home while Traveling for the Holidays

by Sandi Pressley

The holidays are here and many of us will be traveling to be with loved ones to share the joy of the season. While we’re all excited to get packed and be on our way, it is very important to make sure our home and property is secure while we are away. Here are some home safety tips to employ while you’re away to ensure you come back to a safe and sound residence.

Set timers on your lights- timers on indoor lights or programmable switches make it seem like someone is home and normal day to day functions are taking place. You can also utilize smart blubs that can be programmed right from your phone!

Install a security system- this doesn’t necessarily mean a pricey service; many camera systems are available for purchase and can be installed fairly easily and come with monitoring right from your phone. These systems will also send an alert to your phone if something is amiss.

Install motion sensors on outdoor lights- an easy way to scare off an intruder is for a flood light to come on when they enter the yard. Motion sensors on your outdoor lights will do just this and will avoid them even getting close to your home to cause potential damage.

Make sure all windows and doors are locked- this usually goes without saying, but always do a second check of windows and doors before leaving your home to make sure one of the family members haven’t opened a window or door you previously locked.

Stop your Mail- If you will be gone for longer than a day or two, make sure to have the post office stop your mail and hold it until you return.  Mail that builds up in your mailbox is a signal to intruders that your house is open for business.

Social Media Time Out- Even though you are all excited about your trip, resist the urge to post about leaving for your trip, where you are going, photos when you are on the trip, etc.  If you want to share your experiences and memories, wait until you are back home to do so.

Lastly, always let a trusted neighbor know your plans. That way they can keep an eye on your home and know when to expect you home in the event there is an emergency on the road or at home while you are away.

Have a wonderful, safe holiday season!

Be sure to follow us on our Facebook page and check back to our blog frequently for real estate updates and community news. 

Avoid Albuquerque Home Contractor Scams

by Sandi Pressley

We all know the story. You hire an Albuquerque contractor who you think will do the job right and honestly, only to be slighted in the end.

Most contractors can be trusted. But as with any profession, there are definitely some who spoil the whole batch. How can you tell if your contractor is scamming you? What can you do to protect yourself?

Don't Pay For the Whole Job Up Front

Let's say your contractor asks for money up front for materials. While it's fair to pay some money to get the job going, you should beware if they ask for more than 30% up front. Some dishonest contractors may just run off on you once they get the money, or just do a sloppy job, knowing you can't fire them since they have your money.

How to protect yourself: Never prepay more than $1,000 or 10% of the job total, whichever is less. That should be enough to establish that you’re a serious customer so the contractor can work you into his schedule.  That's the only valid point of paying up front. If your contractor needs to rent equipment, they should be able to do so on credit with their suppliers, provided the contractor really is the professional they profess to be.

"Trust Me"

If your contractor agrees to do what you need exact to your specs, along with other items, make sure it's in writing. Don't just go by a verbal agreement. If you don't get it all in writing, then a dishonest contractor may just start leaving things out. And there's really nothing you can do about it legally.

How to protect yourself: There isn't much you can do legally if you signed a contract that doesn't include all the details. Make sure you get all the details in writing. And if you need to add anything, make sure you initial each addition and have the contractor initial it as well.

"I Don’t Need to Pull a Permit"

Any significant amount of construction will require a permit. This will allow building officials to visit the site on occasion to make sure the work meets code.

An unlicensed contractor may try to get around this on smaller jobs by saying that the authorities won't notice. Yet on larger jobs, it's more likely that it will be noticed. So the contractor may ask you to get a a homeowner’s permit, an option available to do-it-yourselfers.

The problem with getting your own permit is that you will not only be lying to the authorities about who's doing the work, but it also makes you responsible if something goes awry. That means that you have to answer to the inspector instead of the contractor.

How to protect yourself: Always demand that the contractor get a building permit. Yes, it informs the local tax assessor about your upgrade, but it weeds out unlicensed contractors and gives you the added protection of an independent assessment of the work.

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

14412 OAKWOOD Place NE, Albuquerque, NM 87123

A gem nestled in the Foothills! Built in 2000, this 4-Bedroom custom home comes with all the bells & whistles. At 4,665sqft, this home boasts incredible living space made for entertaining. Open kitchen is a chef's delight w/ great new appliances, 5-burner Gas Range, gorgeous granite, large pantry and tons of seating. Spread out w/ the lower level entertaining area, or go outside on any of the multiple balconies, or through the huge backyard with hot tub and so many great views. This smart home features lights that turn on automatically as you enter the room & is wired with surround sound. The Master Suite showcases a luxurious bathroom complete with jetted tub, oversized shower, & custom California Closet. With a water softener, humidifier, and laundry chute, this home truly has it all.

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.

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Keeping Your Albuquerque Home Free of Pet Smells While on the Market

by Sandi Pressley

Are you selling your Albuquerque home and have dogs? We know you love your dogs. Pet odors or the appearance of a house that has been occupied by pets can make selling a home difficult. The smells your dogs leave behind will be noticed right away by potential buyers.

If you are putting your house up for sale, how can you prevent the smell of pets from permeating the house?

Steam Clean All Fabrics

The best absorbent surfaces are those with a soft texture. As a result, you need to steam clean everything in the house that is fabric.

Dogs are known to stick their paws on everything and leave behind oils, odors, and fur. For this reason, you need to clean carpets, rugs, furniture, and even drapes. Even though it may seem extreme, it could make the difference between selling your home or not.

Grooming

As you likely groom your dog regularly, this is a good time to give them a grooming. But make sure you hire a professional. Therefore, the cleaner will do a better job, and their water will flow down the drain instead of yours.

Brush your dog outside regularly while your house is on the market to prevent hair from falling onto your sofa or rugs.

Clean Tile-Floor Grout

Tile grout absorbs pet stains and smells as well. Stains and odors can be removed by steam cleaning the grout. If the old grout looks bad, hire a professional to remove it and replace it.

Get an Air Purifier

Since you've grown accustomed to pet odors, you might not even notice them. An air purifier with a HEPA filter will remove hair and dander from the air.

When your air filters are changed regularly, most air ducts do not need to be cleaned. If, however, dander and fur seem to be taking over your home, you may need to hire a company to clean your air ducts.

Use Enzymatic Cleaners

Enzymatic cleaners are specially made to remove pet odors. They're made from beneficial bacteria that eat stains and odors.

They’re formulated to get rid of a specific type of stain, so a cleanser that targets urine won’t be the same as one for vomit. Apply them liberally to stains regardless of how old they are.

Get Rid of Scratches

The toenails of pets leave recognizable marks on walls and doors. If your walls and doors are made of synthetic materials, you can just paint over the marks. To fill in scratches on wooden doors, use a wood-filling pen. Steel wool or fine sandpaper should be used to remove small scratches, followed by mineral spirits, wood filler, and polyurethane. Refinishing hardwood is a good investment when there is major damage.

Absorb Odors With Charcoal

Charcoal is great for pulling moisture and odors out of the air. Place inconspicuous little bags of it in places your pets love most. Or, just strategically stash some charcoal briquettes around the house.

Spot Clean Furniture Daily

Keeping your dog off the couch isn't always possible, so cover your freshly-cleaned furniture with throws or pet covers, and wash them at least once a week. Vacuum rugs and carpets every day. Pet smells sink in fast.

Get a Sniff Test

You’ve scrubbed everything, and you think your house smells like a dog has never set foot in the door. Get a second opinion as to whether the odors are gone. You may be nose-blind. Ask your agent to walk through and give you an honest opinion.

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

9905 DENALI Road NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111

PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP! Great opportunity to make this immaculate & lovingly cared for home your own! Situated in the highly desirable Far Northeast Heights Academy Hills subdivision, this gem will not disappoint. Featuring a light, bright open floorplan with impressive high-end finishes throughout. Main level includes an inviting great room appointed with a vaulted beamed ceiling; wood burning fireplace with blower & built-ins; French doors with side panels to invite in the natural light & opening to the view deck overlooking the backyard & Sandia Mountains. Wood floors grace the formal dining room & eat in kitchen with high-end appliances & fixtures; pot filler; separate coffee bar; enjoy the views from the large window next to the eat at bar; ample pantry & more.....

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.

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Create More Space in Your Albuquerque Home

by Sandi Pressley

Are you running out of space to store things in your Albuquerque home? Most home owners find it hard to create more storage space in their home. Here's a few tips that can help you free up some space and organize all of your stuff.

A New View

One way to find new ways to store items is to give your home a close look to see if there's a corner or niche that could be turned into a closet or have room to place storage containers. You may just need to open your mind to reimagine a space.

The Right Furniture

Furniture that serves as storage is a great way to kill two birds with one stone. Ottomans are a great example of this, as they can serve as an extra seat, as well as hide items like remotes, blankets, or anything that is cluttering up your living space.

Spin the Bookcase

IKEA’s KALLAX is a great idea as it has plenty of storage space and you don't need a ton of wall space to use it. It’s finished on both sides, so you can also use it as a wall divider. If you're not into KALLAX, you create your own version by placing two bookcases back to back.

Space Saver Bags

Space saver bags are no gimmick. They really do help with storing all sorts of items, especially seasonal clothes, bedding, and other soft items as they can be compressed to a fraction of the size.

Rolling Along

All that space under the bed is just going to waste. You can capitalize on it by getting a few rolling storage tubs. And it will keep the dust bunnies away.

Top Shelf

You know that shelf above the hanging rod in your closet? There's usually plenty of space above that shelf where you can put an extra shelf. That way your stuff won't be teetering or toppling, and you can use all the space available up to the ceiling.

Hang from the Ceiling

If you're looking to create more storage in your garage, you can use a solution that hangs from the ceiling, like SafeRacks. You can get them online or at Costco. It's an ideal way to get your items off the floor so you can park your cars.

Pots and Pans 

Pots and pans are notorious for taking up space. You may have space in your kitchen, but it's just not organized enough. Finding the right organizer can make a huge difference and make cooking easier. This solution will help your kitchen storage dramatically.

DIY Solutions

If you’ve got a good imagination and a few good tools, you can make something that will help meet your storage needs. You can put Bob Vila’s secret compartments in the fireplace trim, pull-out drawers in the banquette, and definitely the under-the-stairs trick on your to-do list.

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!

10 PEARL GUEST Court, Edgewood, NM 87015   $355,000

3 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms (0 full, 2 half) / 1781 Square Feet

WELCOME HOME! This gorgeous one-story home is light and bright - it is spacious with two living areas, a stainless kitchen and breakfast nook. Home beams of natural light as you walk in. Tongue and groove with vigas makes it a beautiful entry. Home sits on 2.76 acres with beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Only 20 minutes to Albuquerque!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

The Comeback of the Dining Room

by Sandi Pressley

For a while, many Albuquerque home owners had lost interest in dining rooms. Formal dining rooms didn't get decorated or even used since homeowners weren't motivated to do so. 

But that may be changing. The dining room has lost its footing over the years to expanded kitchen eateries and admonished for its lack of use, but the formal dining room is making a strong comeback.

Make your dining room stand out with these tips.

The right table

It's all about scale. An improperly sized table can throw off the whole room. “When choosing a dining table shape, consider your room's dimensions, how many people you'll typically want to seat, and your entertaining style,” said Wayfair. “Don’t forget, removable leaves allow you to adjust a table depending on the size of your dinner party.”

Color 

Adding a personal touch to the dining room makes it a great place to showcase your unique personality. You can be bold with those walls and use a deep, rich, vivid, or saturated color. You can also choose a wallpaper that catches the eye. Wallpaper has been in vogue for a while now, and the dining room is the ideal base for pretty patterns.

Lighting

Make a statement with a chandelier. Where else but the dining room? But that's just the beginning. 

“Ideally, you should choose bulbs and fixtures that produce between 200 and 400 watts, but the real key is layering: make sure to use a mix of lighting sources including floor lamps, wall fixtures, candles and windows (Yes, natural lighting counts too!),” said Pottery Barn. “The shape of your light fixture is also important. Choose a shape that complements your dining table. For example, hang a rounded fixture above a round table and choose an oval or linear fixture to hang above longer and rectangular tables. Finally, consider the size of your space. If you have a large dining room, go big and bold with an extravagant chandelier. If your space is smaller, smaller hanging pendants will achieve a similar effect without taking up too much space.”

Seating

Combining comfort and class is the way to go. Make sure you pay attention to the seat fabric as well. Here's another chance to show off your flair. 

It is also important to use a high-quality fabric. If you have young children, you may need to consider the fabric's porosity. Top choices include microfiber and leather. A busy pattern also works well because stains won't show up as easily. 

Add a rug

“Round out your dining room design with vibrant area rugs,” said Better Homes and Gardens. “Anchor your dining set with a colorful area rug that harmonizes with your palette and decorating style. Area rugs should extend at least 2 feet beyond a table's sides to accommodate occupied chairs. An 8x10-foot area rug is a good fit for most dining sets. Introduce kicky slipcovers, graceful draperies, fabric lampshades, eye-catching artworks, framed mirrors, and cool collections that counterbalance your furniture's heavy forms and hard edges.”

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!

12623 INDIAN Place NE, Albuquerque, NM 87112   $299,000

4 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms (1 full, 1 half) / 1906 Square Feet

Move In Ready! Don't miss the opportunity to own this lovely & meticulously maintained NE Heights home, nestled in the quaint Royal Heights neighborhood! The efficient floorplan offers over 1900 square feet with both formal & informal living spaces; complete w/4 bdrms! Interior professionally painted 2021; New Evap cooler April 2021; Pella sliding door; Pergo flooring & more! Well thought out kitchen features beautiful cabinetry & counters; eat at peninsula; updated back splash; & pantry addition, all which opens to the cozy family room w/wood burning fireplace, leading out to the landscaped backyard w/large covered patio; lawn; shrubs; trees; & storage. Views of the Sandia Mtns on a large corner lot w/great curb appeal; close to foothills, trails, shopping, & commute. Don't wait to show!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team


Appliance Repairs You Can Do Yourself and Those You Should Not

by Sandi Pressley

We take appliances for granted until they break. Then our entire day goes down the drain. A repair can be expensive and time-consuming. However, sometimes you can do the repair yourself. Here are 5 repairs you can do yourself, and two you shouldn't.

Replace the Thermostat in The Dryer

In most cases, the thermostat is the problem with a dryer that won't heat up. A new thermostat can be purchased at most hardware stores for under $80, a considerable savings over a dryer repair, which generally costs around $180. In your dryer manual, you'll find the location of the thermostat, and you can watch a YouTube video if you need further guidance if needed.

Clear the Drain in the Dishwasher

If your dishwasher isn't draining, it's likely that there is a clog. You can clear this up with a shop vac. You may be able to avoid costly dishwasher repairs by plugging in the vacuum hose, operating the vac for a few minutes, then testing the dishwasher again.

Replace the Fan in the Freezer

It could be a bad freezer fan that's causing your freezer not to keep things cold. This fan circulates the cold air throughout the freezer. If it's broken, cold air won't reach those areas. A new fan costs about $85 at your local hardware store. It can be replaced in a few minutes by unscrewing and connecting it, and then replacing it. You've just saved a lot of money.

Clean Coils in the Refrigerator

Dirty coils can cause your fridge to lose its cooling capacity. You can find them under or behind the unit, and they can accumulate a lot of debris, dust, and pet hair. If that happens, the coils can freeze up, rather than cool the inside. Clean coils by unplugging the fridge and sliding it out, then vacuuming, dusting, or wiping them down. Plug it back in and give it an hour to cool back down to its normal temperature.

Unclog the Burner in the Gas Stove

Gas stoves that have trouble lighting or emit a gas smell might be the result of a clogged burner. If gas and electricity are working properly, you may just have to fix the burner. Once the gas is shut off to the stove, use a small brush and cleaning solution to scrub out the burner head. Restart the gas and the burner should light right up. 

When to Call a Pro

The fixes above are easy. But here are two things that definitely need a pro.

Repairing the Icemaker Broken on the Fridge

In the event that your ice maker unexpectedly stops working when still connected to water, the compressor is most likely to blame. In some cases, icemaker repair can cost up to $300. Icemakers are among the most expensive components of a refrigerator, and often require some major work to the refrigerator itself. This will need a pro, as things can easily be made worse if the repair is done wrong. 

Repair the Microwave

It is best to contact an expert if the microwave you own is more expensive and needs to be repaired. Do not attempt to make repairs yourself. Those devices can leak microwave radiation when not properly sealed, so call a pro for help before you start fiddling around. Or just buy a new microwave if it's old enough and a replacement will cost the same as repair.

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!

7508 CALLE MONTANA NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113

5 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms (2 full, 1 half) / 3011 Square Feet

Beautiful 5 bedroom Stillbrooke home in highly sought after planned community! Main level features grand open floorplan w/gorgeous custom staircase; spacious great room opens onto breakfast nook & kitchen w/granite countertops, island & breakfast bar. Cathedral ceilings & Clerestory windows makes this home bright & light. Flexible floorplan could be 2 living areas: office & 5 bedroom plus loft, OR formal dining, greatroom, 5 bedrooms & loft/media area. Master suite on main level has backyard access, spa like en suite & huge walk-in closet. Also, a secondary bedroom on main level. Upstairs features a huge loft/media room, 3 more very large bedrooms, & additional full bathroom. Lovely landscaped backyard w/water feature & fully walled for privacy. New carpet 2019, & updated SS appliances.

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

Identifying Dangers in Your Albuquerque Home

by Sandi Pressley

As they say, your home is your castle. It’s a place where you feel safe and secure. As such, homeowners tend to overlook the very things that can make their home unsafe. Many accidents occur in the home that can seriously injure or even kill people. And it’s not just children or the elderly. Accidents in the home claim 18,000 lives each year in America alone, accounting for 21 million medical visits annually. Many of these accidents are preventable.

Here are some trouble areas to keep an eye on in your Albuquerque home to make your life safer.

Dryer vents

Thousands of house fires start each year because of neglected dryer maintenance. You may clean out the lint screen, but the lint that accumulates in the vent is more dangerous. The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) recommends cleaning or having a professional inspect your dryer vent's lint every two to three years. It’s also a good idea to keep a fire extinguisher near your dryer in case a fire breaks out.

Falls

A third of all fatalities that occur in the home are from falls. Old age plays a large role in many of them, but people of all ages are also affected. Safety gates are an obvious safety precaution with little ones, and grab bars will provide a safety boost for older individuals. Keeping an eye on wet areas, such as the shower and bath, and particularly in front of the sink, can help with slips. Installing non-slip rug pads under area rugs to keep them in place is key to preventing falls.

Blinds

It is horrifying to think that a young child could be strangled due to blind cords. But it happens. By choosing cordless blinds, you can eliminate the worries without having to give up the look and room-darkening features you want.

Fire alarms

When was the last time you changed your fire alarm batteries? If you can't recall, it's time to do it. Make sure every level of your home has smoke alarms, and check and change the batteries at least once a year. Consider a smart smoke detector such as Nest Protect, which uses Wi-Fi to provide real-time updates and remote monitoring right on a smartphone or other mobile device.

A dirty oven

Most ovens nowadays have a self-cleaning feature. While it is not pleasant to endure the smell as it works, it far outweighs the alternative given that 40 percent of fires begin in the kitchen.

Make sure to clean your oven regularly and always watch what you're cooking. Always check to make sure burners are turned off after cooking on the stove top.

Carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide is known as the silent killer because it can cause serious health problems if not recognized until symptoms occur. It is an odorless, tasteless, colourless gas. You cannot see it or smell it.

Smoke detectors are prevalent in homes, but even though a carbon monoxide alarm can assist in the prevention of death, owners are often left to purchase and install them. Each year in the United States, more than 200 accidental deaths are caused by carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. It is considered the leading cause of death from poisoning in the United States.

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!

13516 Deer Trail Place NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111  $895,000

6 Bedrooms / 4 Bathrooms (3 full, 1 half) / 5893 Square Feet

Perfectly situated with 180 degree views in Glenwood Hills. The frosted glass accented front door greets you and beyond is a wide, open floorplan, with tons of natural light, gas fireplace and wet bar making this home perfect for entertaining. Main level boasts a master suite, 2 spacious bedrooms, formaldining and well-appointed kitchen with breakfast nook and access to one of many patios. Upstairs is another master suite with jetted tub and double sinks, privatebalcony and a fantastic walk-in closet. The garden level is open to the patios and is perfect for rec room/office/gym. Want city AND mountain views this uniqueproperty offers panoramic, breathtaking city views with Mount Taylor in the distance! Hiking, biking and walking trails are just minutes away.

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

 


Make Your Albuquerque Home Smarter

by Sandi Pressley

Are you thinking about making your Albuquerque home a little smarter? With smart home technology, what was once the world of the future is today’s reality. With a single voice command, you can perform a vast array of functions, like turning on your lights, opening the garage door, setting the thermostat, or playing your favorite playlist.

This might sound like it’s complicated to set up. But if you follow these 3 steps, you’re smart home will be ready in no time.

1. Make Sure Your Internet Connection Is Up to Speed

Before you start investing in smart home gear, check your internet and make sure it's reliable, fast and has an unlimited data plan. You'll want a reliable internet connection and a high data cap (or none at all!) to get the best out of your smart home.

One smart device might not require a lot of data, but as you add more, the total can balloon—especially if you stream videos or perform other intensive tasks simultaneously.

2. Choose Your Voice Assistant

Before you start buying smart home gear, decide whether smart assistants are a good idea. Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant are all great in their own ways, but their integration with smart devices varies quite a bit. This means that you may need to select your devices based on their compatibility with the assistant.

Alexa

Alexa offers the most integration options of any of the assistants. So if voice control is important to you, Alexa can probably handle it. You can get Alexa on smartphones and Amazon Echos.

Siri

Siri has the fewest integration points, is only supported on a limited number of devices (Apple only), and is considered the poorest voice assistant of the three. Siri is available on iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, and HomePod speakers, so it's best to be heavily invested in Apple's products already.

Google Assistant

Google Assistant is midway between Alexa and Siri. It offers fewer integrations than Alexa, but it is the best digital assistant for answering questions, thanks to Google’s impressive machine-learning ability. Google Assistant is available across a wide range of platforms, including the Google Home smart speaker.

3. Start Adding Your Devices

Once you have decided which assistant is the right one for you, start looking for devices that work with it. Examples of common devices include smart thermostats, video doorbells and smart lighting.

Smart Thermostats

Several benefits are provided by thermostats like the Nest Learning Thermostat:

  • They learn your preferences, so you don’t have to adjust them much.
  • They are very energy efficient. Typically, the Nest will pay for itself in energy savings after about two years. Beyond that it’s all extra money in your pocket.
  • You can control them from your smartphone and adjust the temperature before you get home.

Nest isn’t the only maker on the market, but it was arguably the most talked about. It looks great, and it functions well. 

Video Doorbells

Video doorbells have become quite popular. You can see who’s there and even speak to them—even when you’re not at home. They’re also a great deterrent to package theft, which is becoming increasingly prominent. Ring makes a great video doorbell.

Smart Lighting

Another popular choice is smart lighting. In addition to the usual smartphone control and automation, smart lighting like Philips Hue comes in a variety of colors. The color and color temperature may be set pretty much to anything you want, which is great to set the mood. The bulbs also last a long time and do not consume lots of power, so they are good for the environment and your wallet.

Many more smart home options are available to explore, but this list should provide you with enough to get you started with a reliable and safe smart home. So, what are you waiting for? Get going and start enjoying the convenience and benefits of a connected home 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!

13516 Deer Trail Place NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111  $895,000

6 Bedrooms / 4 Bathrooms (3 full, 1 half) / 5893 Square Feet

Perfectly situated with 180 degree views in Glenwood Hills. The frosted glass accented front door greets you and beyond is a wide, open floorplan, with tons of natural light, gas fireplace and wet bar making this home perfect for entertaining. Main level boasts a master suite, 2 spacious bedrooms, formaldining and well-appointed kitchen with breakfast nook and access to one of many patios. Upstairs is another master suite with jetted tub and double sinks, privatebalcony and a fantastic walk-in closet. The garden level is open to the patios and is perfect for rec room/office/gym. Want city AND mountain views this uniqueproperty offers panoramic, breathtaking city views with Mount Taylor in the distance! Hiking, biking and walking trails are just minutes away.

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 


Make a Stunning Albuquerque Garden on the Cheap

by Sandi Pressley

One of the best ways to attract home buyers in Albuquerque is with a beautiful garden. When they drive up to your home, they'll be compelled to look further when they see the vibrant array of plants. However, what if you can't spend a fortune to create a huge garden? You still can have a beautiful garden with the right motivation, budgeting and understanding of your landscape's limitations and strengths.

Here are a few tips to help you create a garden on a limited budget that will help attract buyers:

Grow Your Own

Starting your garden from seed can save you a lot of money, as long as you have the patience to wait for them to grow. Seeds typically cost between $1 - $5 per packet, and you can grow many flowers from those packets. By contrast, a full-grown plant costs between $10 and $50. This demonstrates how easy it is to save money by sowing seeds.

Rock Up

You can probably find plenty of rocks in your yard to use in your garden. You can build a small border that will look natural. And if you don't have enough rocks, consider buying some for cheap.

Fairy Lights

At night, lights will really make your garden stand out. You can find solar-charging lights at reasonable prices for your garden. 

Upcycle Furniture

Do you have any old furniture that you could refurbish? Maybe you can get a piece or two from a thrift store? Rather than bringing in new furniture for your garden, you can fix up your old furniture.

Rusty metals can be removed from outdoor furniture easily, just use acidic ingredients such as baking soda or coca-cola to remove them with a rag. Old wooden benches could simply be sanded or have some of the slats replaced. 

Fill with Pots

Pots can add beauty to any garden. Pots are inexpensive and can be filled with your seedlings to create an aesthetically pleasing landscape. You can place them next to the front door to welcome buyers.

Grow Upwards 

An effective trellis can make a big impact with your budget garden. You can plant roses or lilacs to make a stunning vertical display.

Gravel It 

Don't buy expensive paving stones or high-end gravel. You can create a chic garden with this durable product at an affordable price. It's modern, minimalistic and on-trend.

You can also purchase paving slabs to decorate the gravel if you so desire.

With just these few tips, you can help get your home ready to sell to Albuquerque home buyers. And the best part is that you won't have to spend a ton of money to make it happen.

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!

14319 MARQUETTE Drive NE, Albuquerque, NM 87123  $399,000

4 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms (3 full, 0 half) / 3000 Square Feet

Impeccably Maintained Home Ready for its new Owners! Nestled in the Foothills on a great corner lot, this home will not disappoint. Main level features two living areas, with both formal & informal dining options; a galley kitchen with dining nook; great guest bedroom next to a full bath; & closed in porch/sunroom ideal for home gym or game room. Upper level features a very roomy master suite & en suite, plus two additional bedrooms & full bath. Great curb appeal on a large corner lot & easy access to Hwy, close to hiking/biking trails, & conveniences.

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

Make Your Basement a Special Place

by Sandi Pressley

We all need a little extra space these days. Basements are unique spaces. It is a place people retreat from the rest of their home. They are often bedrooms for teens or spaces reserved for guests. Basements can be a man cave, a party space, or a place to store everything. There are a variety of things you can do to improve your basement. This is the ideal place to give a little extra thought and let your imagination run wild. The best part is you can use your basement for different purposes so you have the space you need every time. And improving your basement is a great way to add appeal to your Albuquerque home if you plan to sell it soon in this hot sellers market.

Lighting is a Must

Lighting is important in basements as they tend to be dank, dark spaces. This will help prevent accidents and make the basement safer. Basement window wells work great for bringing light and air into your basement. Artificial lighting of all types helps other parts of the basement as well. Stairs leading to the basement should be illuminated so that everyone can see them. Overhead lighting is a good option because all parts of the basement will be illuminated. Create a cozy spot in one part of the basement using scattered uplighting.

Storage Considerations

Basements are often used for extra storage, so make this task easier with the right kind of storage. Consider built-in storage, which you can use the staircase to put in addition shelving. Storage space can also be located in other spaces in the basement. By using awkward spaces like little corners, each space can be used efficiently. Find other options. Hangers with hooks for clothes and cubbies next to the door are great choices if you're trying to stay organized.

Dress up Plain Drywall

The basement's drywall can feel drab and unappealing. It can be hard to keep clean and seem dingy over time. Redoing the walls will enhance the basement's appearance. Wainscot paneling is a great way to add character. Use them to help define the space. Paint the bottom of the panels white to add color and define the space better. You should also consider adding a contrasting color to bring out the panels' fine details. This is also an excellent place to utilize your favorite fabrics. If you have a collection of scarves from your travels abroad, why not display them along the walls. They add color and pattern. This part of your home can become a man cave with dark green walls and all your favorite sports teams' logos on the walls.

The Flooring

Basement floors should be chosen carefully. You want flooring that can last for a long time and still look good. This is the time to choose options that are softer underfoot and easy to maintain. Rubber tiles are ideal for use in a basement family room. Tile is durable and can protect against water damage without stains. Tile that looks like wood adds warmth to a home while being easy to handle and will take on water without problem if the basement floods. You can add texture and warmth with several different kinds of rugs in different areas. This softens the feel of each space and provides comfort underneath your feet as you snuggle up with your family and watch your favorite show together.

Extra living space in a house is useful in a lot of situations. It is the perfect place for welcoming guests or just stretching out on a cold day. Lighting, storage, and flooring make basements more livable and space efficient than ever.

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!

803 WARM SANDS Court SE, Albuquerque, NM 87123  $625,000

6 Bedrooms / 4 Bathrooms (4 full, 0 half) / 4553 Square Feet

Stunning Custom home (By Guererro)on a cul de sac in 4 Hills Village, upon entering you will notice the hardwood grand staircase. Home features 6 Bedrooms, 4 Baths, with Gourmet Kitchen, stainless appliances, granite counter tops, remodeled bathrooms, an amazing walk out basement (1200 sq ft) with a bedroom bathroom (pool table stays), storage, wet bar and so much more and entertaining areas. Spectacular views from master bedroom Balcony,(there are two other balconies as well), backyard w/rv access. There is new carpet, paint, surround sound, updated lighting, fans, all new hardware on the doors, oversized 3 car garage w new doors/openers. Schedule an appt now. Please note hot tub does not convey!

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