Real Estate Information Archive

Organizing your garage can be daunting, but with a systematic approach, you can transform it into a clean and functional space. Here are the organizational steps you can follow to declutter and organize your garage:

1. Assess and Declutter:

- Start by assessing the contents of your garage and determine what you want to keep, donate, sell, or throw away.- Sort items into categories such as tools, sports equipment, gardening supplies, seasonal decorations, etc.

2. Set Up Zones:

 - Divide your garage space into zones based on the types of items you have, such as a workshop area, sports gear zone, storage area, etc.- Allocate space according to your needs and the amount of space available.

3. Invest in Storage Solutions:

- Evaluate what storage solutions would work best for each zone in your garage. Considerations may include shelving units, pegboards, cabinets, overhead storage, or wall-mounted racks.

- Purchase the necessary storage equipment to maximize space and keep items organized.

4. Establish a Floor Plan:

- Create a floor plan of your garage, considering the space available and the location of items within each zone.

- This plan will help you visualize and optimize the layout of your garage, making it easier to find and access items whenever needed.

5. Categorize and Label:

- Group similar items within each zone and label storage bins, shelves, or containers accordingly.

- Labeling all storage areas will help you effortlessly locate and return items.

6. Utilize Wall Space:

- Use the walls in your garage to hang tools, equipment, and other items.

- Install pegboards, hooks, or wall-mounted racks to keep frequently used items within easy reach.

7. Optimize Overhead Space:

 - If your garage has high ceilings, consider installing overhead storage racks to keep seasonal or less frequently used items off the floor.

- This will free up extra space below and maximize storage capacity.

While summer is one of our favorite seasons of the year, it is also a hot one and can make it exceptionally challenging to keep our home cool. Balance that with keeping our expenses in check and it can make it even trickier. So, we thought it would make sense to share some tips on keeping your home cool in an energy friendly way.

Programmable Thermostats- These energy saving devices are second to none. It allows your family to feel comfortable during the day and while be up and about around the home but can be programmed to be lowered in the evenings and while you are out. These small, but very economical changes can save you thousands on your energy bill annually.

Heat Reducing Film- Many homes in Albuquerque make use of beautiful skylight windows and palladium types to take advantage of the gorgeous views we are afforded. While it sure is breathtaking, it also allows much excess heat into our homes, and by extension, stresses our A/C to work harder throughout our homes. Did you know that approximately 30% of ambient heat enters a home through the windows?! Window film can be used to keep the heat out, and the cold out in colder climates. It’s truly a win-win and reduces cooling costs.

Ceiling Fans- While hardly a new invention, they are a tried-and-true solution and today’s modern fans offer many aesthetically pleasing options with many amenities. The main point with ceiling fans is that you want to run your fans counter-clockwise during warmer months so that cooler air is pulled upwards- creating a much-needed breeze. It works with your Central Air or A/C units in directing the flow of the air. This allows you to run at a higher temp and conserve energy at the same time. Result- lower energy bills.

Open your windows at night- Sounds simple, right? However, it’s easy to forget when running your AC all day long to monitor the outdoor temperatures at night. Many times, they drop to very comfortable levels that would allow you to open windows and allow fresh, cool air into your home. Not only will it give your AC units a break and save on energy costs…it also gives your home a great blast a fresh air after days of recirculated air. Ahhhh…always a welcome breeze!

Grill! What’s better than lunch or dinner on the grill?!  Utilize your outdoor grill or kitchen to its energy saving potential. The more you utilize your outdoor space, the less you are heating up your indoor space. Plus its more fun to gather outside with family & friends for a meal and take in the beautiful scenery.

Do you have energy saving tips you’d like to add? We’d love to hear from you! Email us anytime.  Remember, to check out our Facebook page frequently for Homeowner Tips, Community Information, Real Estate Updates and all our New Listings! Like and Subscribe while you're there so you don't miss any new posts we share! 

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

12 DUSTIN COURT, PLACITAS, NM

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

GET YOUR MORNING INSPIRATION WITH THE Sandi Pressley TEAM!

Summertime is always a great time to sell your home, but it doesn’t mean you forego any attention to the details. You want potential home buyers to feel welcome and to be able to visualize your space as their own. But first and foremost, your home needs to make an amazing first impression.  Here are some tips to ensure you make a SPLASH when you enter the marketplace.

• Make curb appeal top of mind. Summer is a great time to showcase your landscaping, flowers, and outdoor features. Make sure your exterior is well cared for, weeded, plants watered, and your porch is inviting.
• Highlight your outdoor living space. If you have a patio, deck, pool, or backyard, make sure they are clean and well-maintained. Your outdoor area is a natural extension of your living space, so you don’t want to miss highlighting this extra area. Add some cozy elements such as cushions, lanterns, string lights, blankets, flowers and more to make it your own & inviting to your guest.  
• Address home repairs before listing your home. Buyers will be more picky in the summer when there is more competition. What that means to sellers is that you need to go through you home with a discerning eye. Room by room take notes on everything that needs to be fixed and start working at it. If you need larger fixes such as HVAC, roof, plumbing, or electrical, always speak with your real estate agent before making the changes. Many times they have resources at their disposal that can help you get the job done quicker, at a financially sounder price to meet your needs. Their partnerships in the market afford them special pricing and preferential treatment in home repairs. They will also ensure you are making the necessary improvements or upgrades needed to sell your home at the optimal price.
• Get your windows sparkling clean. Nothing brightens up a home and brings in natural light like clean windows. Give your windows a thorough washing, both inside and out, and let that sunshine in to really show off your home.
• Repaint, touch up and replace. A fresh coat of paint can make a big difference in how your home looks and feels. Choose neutral colors that appeal to most buyers and complement your furniture. Touch up any scuffs or marks on the walls, doors, or trim. Replace any outdated or broken fixtures, hardware, and appliances.
• Replace linens. Summer is a hot season, so you want to make your home feel cool and comfortable. Swap out heavy blankets, curtains, and rugs for lighter fabrics and colors. Use cotton sheets, airy curtains and natural fibers to create a light, cool, and breezy vibe.
• Rearrange furnishings. You want to make your home look spacious and inviting, not cramped and cluttered. Remove any excess furniture or items that take up too much space or block the flow of traffic. Always try to arrange furniture to showcase the best features of your home and each room. Also try to create cozy conversational areas within each room.  
• Go green. Adding some plants and flowers to your home can bring some life and color to your space. Choose plants that are easy to care for and don’t need too much water or sunlight. Cacti are an excellent option, not only for our area, but maintenance in general!  Another great idea is to use fresh herbs, fruits, and vegetables as décor in your kitchens and dining areas.

At the Sandi Pressley Team our incredible team works with you hand in hand to ensure your home is not only ready to make it’s debut to the market, but will bring in the qualified home buyers that you are looking for. Targeting the buyers that are looking for your type of home, in the neighborhood you’re in with the surrounding amenities.

When you’re ready to put your SOLD plan into action, let us know!

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

1011 WATERFALL DRIVE NE, RIO RANCHO, NM

Beautiful Move-in Ready Gem! Situated in the heart of the lovely community of Northern Meadows, this four-bedroom home with approximately 2529 square feet has plenty of space for everyone. Featuring Professional Stucco, Exterior Paint, & Interior Paint all NEW in 2023! Multiple living spaces on the main level, ideal for entertaining. A fully equipped kitchen w/island opens to the family room which will be a favorite gathering area. All bedrooms are neatly tucked upstairs on the second floor that includes a bonus/recreation room. Primary suite boasts a spa like ensuite & private balcony overlooking the backyard with two covered patios to enjoy outdoor living. The finished garage includes a secondary refrigerator. Refrigerated air and so much more. This one is a must see!

START YOUR DAY INSPIRED WITH THE Sandi Pressley TEAM!

Offering a strong job market and ever-growing economy, with a great blend of cultural diversity and gorgeous landscapes, the housing market is flourishing in Albuquerque. While many parts of the country experienced a slowdown, Albuquerque continues to be competitive and fast paced. Here are the current stats for our area:

MEDIAN SALES PRICE:  $338,000.

MED PRICE PER SQ/FT:  $194

UP 3/2% (YoY)

SALES TO LIST PRICE RATIO: 100%

**There has been a steady rise in home values over the past year with the average home vale now at $310,836. - up 5/2%.

This healthy market shows homes selling quickly in an average of 22 days, with an average of 2 offers per home and many others with multiples. The supply of homes in Albuquerque is still below the need of buyers searching for homes, which means Sellers…it’s a GREAT time to list your home!

If you live in the Albuquerque area you already know how special it is and why it is an awesome place to call HOME! If you’re looking for an amazing city and community to live, let me tell you, you’ll find nothing like our city! Fantastic landscapes and natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts, cultural dining experiences that are second to none, excellent schools, arts and culture, and entertainment galore.

How can we assist you with your real estate goals? Whether you’re buying or selling, put the experience, knowledge, and expertise of the Sandi Pressley team to work for you!

Selling a home can be challenging, especially if you decide to sell your home in Albuquerque on your own, otherwise known as a For Sale By Owner or FSBO. Yet now more than ever, enlisting the help of an agent to help sell your home is critical to the success of the sale, as well as your safety.

Here are a few reasons why you should use an experienced real estate agent when selling your home in Albuquerque.

1. Safety

Real estate agents in Albuquerque, such as Sandi Pressley and her team, are particularly aware of safety issues when selling a home during this pandemic. Not only will they take precautions to protect your health, but to also protect your belongings. They can regulate the number of people who view your home at one time, as well as assure sanitation before and after the showing. If needed they can arrange virtual tours. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) has issued standards that agents will follow to make sure your home sale is as safe as possible.

2. Powerful Online Marketing

Studies are showing that after the COVID-19 outbreak, the number of people who searched for homes online rose to 93%, and that number keeps growing. Your listing is networked through multiple online resources, making your home for sale visible to anyone in the world. Do you have that capability?

3. Negotiations

If you sell your home in Albuquerque on your own, you will have to negotiate with various individuals to complete the sale, including the buyer, the buyer's agent, inspectors, the appraiser, and more. Real estate agents are experts at negotiating with these individuals. They make sure that those negotiations result in a smooth and fair transaction.

4. Is the Buyer Qualified for a Mortgage?

When a buyer is interested in your home, the first important step is to make sure they can afford it. If you sell your home as a FSBO, you can't tell if a buyer is pre-approved for a mortgage, unless they tell you. Real estate agents are experienced in asking the right questions and making sure that you are presented with a buyer who's ready to make deal.

Also, keep in mind that the mortgage market is changing rapidly, with so many families out of work. What a person qualifies for in regards to mortgages can change daily. You need an agent who works with lenders daily and can make sure your buyer can complete the sale.

5. FSBOing is More Difficult Legally

Are you familiar with all of the mandatory disclosures and regulations that are needed to complete a home sale in Albuquerque? Again, your agent deals with legal issues daily and can help you avoid your own legal issues.

6. You Net More Money When Using an Agent

You might think you'll save money by not using an agent to sell your home. But in reality, the opposite is true in most cases. In fact, studies show that you may make less money selling your home as a FSBO. Your agent will also bring more buyers to the table, which can end up in a bidding war and netting even more.

In the end, it just doesn't add up to sell your home on your own. You can rely on Sandi Pressley and her experienced team to make sure that your home sells quickly and for the best price possible. Contact us today to discuss your options.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Learn More!

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

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

When you sell your home in Albuquerque, of course you have the right to be involved in every aspect of the sale. But you also need to be careful not to get in your own way.

Real estate professionals know all the ins and outs of selling a house and how to deal with buyers. Most home sellers understandably do not have that experience. It's very easy as a home seller to sabotage your own efforts without even knowing it.

Here are three of the more common mistakes that home sellers make, and how to avoid them.

Making showings difficult

There's a simple rule as home seller when it comes to showing a home - stand back and let the pros handle it.

Oh yes, you lived in that house for years and know every little nook and cranny, and every story about your home as well. But your insight is not what's going to sell your home. The agent you hired will use their years of experience and training to sell your home. After all, this is what they do and how they get paid. They want to sell your home just as much or more than you do.

In fact, you should not be present at all during a showing. Your presence alone is a distraction to the buyer. When a showing is scheduled, have a plan to leave your home during the showing.

And when it comes to scheduling showing, do your best not to turn down a showing appointment. You may think the buyer will just come at another time, but usually that's no the case. Every appointment you turn down is an opportunity to sell your home. Don't turn down an appointment unless it's absolutely unavoidable.

Keeping a mess

Is your home clean? Ask your agent and follow their advice. This may mean making some real effort to make sure your home is ready to show to buyers in Albuquerque. You may have to hire cleaners, or clean it yourself. Make sure you clean your home to the level it takes to sell. No matter how much effort you put into cleaning your home, it will be worth it when your home sells faster and for more money.

Failing to make repairs

If you are told by a real estate professional to make repairs on your home, do it. Sure, you may not want to shell out a lot of money on a home you won't be living in anymore, but you also have to make your home desirable to home buyers in Albuquerque.

The fact is that most buyers don't want to buy a home with issues. Moving into a new home is hard enough without having to deal with immediate repairs. And if your home needs too many repairs, you may get lower offers. In the end, it's easier for you to take care of any repairs before you put the house up for sale.

There are many things you might do as a seller to get in the way of selling your home. In the end, if you closely follow the advice of your agent, you should do just fine staying out of your own way.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Learn More!

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

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

When you plan to sell your home in Albuquerque, one thing that can't be overlooked is curb appeal. First impressions are critical when selling a home. If it looks good outside, it will probably look good inside as well, inviting buyers to give it a closer look. What are some easy, sure-fire ways to enhance your home's curb appeal? Here are 6 ideas that you can do yoursef.

Paint Your Front Door

To make a great first impression on potential buyers, start with your front door. Choosing the right front door color can enhance your home's style and completely transform its appearance. Whether you opt for a classic black or charcoal, or a bold hue like bright red or yellow, a fresh coat of paint can refresh your home and make it stand out. Don't overlook the impact of a beautiful front door when it comes to selling your home.

Replace Your Mailbox

If your mailbox is rusty or unstable, it's time to replace it. Choose a color that complements your house and remember to position it 6-8 inches from the curb. Details matter.

Update Street Numbers and Door Hardware

Swapping out old street numbers and upgrading door hardware can have a transformative impact. It only takes 15 minutes and costs around $15. This simple upgrade can make a big difference in the overall appearance of your home.

Give Garage Doors a Lift
 
Garage doors often lack detail and depth, dominating the view from the street. A simple solution is to add temporary or magnetic decorative hardware such as handles, hasps, and faux window panels. These accessories add interest and remain secure. DIY expert Jenna Shaughnessy suggests trying magnetic hinges and handles, available for $14 at homedepot.com. Another option is to paint the garage door to match the siding or opt for a contrasting shade, which can have a huge impact.

This can be a weekend project if you use fast-drying exterior semigloss paint, like Sherwin-Williams SnapDry Door & Trim Paint. ($91, sherwinwilliams.com). Some door finishes may require a coat of primer first; ask at the store if you're not sure. Save this project for mild, dry weather—not humid or rainy—so the paint can dry properly.

Create a Grand Entrance

To enhance your home's curb appeal, consider adding structures such as an arbor, trellis, gate or columns with planters at the beginning of the path to your front door. This will frame your entrance and make it more inviting. A display of hydrangeas can add a fresh and lively touch, creating a welcoming atmosphere that entices visitors to explore.

Do a Thorough Cleaning

Cleaning your home's outdoor living space, like the porch and patio, can also do wonders for your curb appeal. Power-wash or hose down your exterior, driveway, and sidewalk. Sponge down your porch furniture with warm water and a little dish soap.

With just a bit of effort, you home will be ready to hit the Albuquerque market and make a great impression on buyers.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Learn More!

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

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

If you're looking to increase your Albuquerque property value and appetite of potential buyers, investing in a quality kitchen design is the perfect way to do so. It's important to spend money on what appeals to the majority - doing so can truly make all the difference in transforming a house into a home.

Investing in high-quality, symmetrical cabinetry can greatly enhance the value of a home. Thoughtful color selection and layout are also key factors to look for when selecting kitchen cabinets. Attention to these four elements will ensure buyers appreciate the appeal of your property.

1. Quality

Do: Choose quality hinges and runners, including soft-close drawers, and custom-made cabinetry.

Don't: Go for large fillers and ill-fitted modular cabinetry.

Creating a modern kitchen design without breaking the bank can be achieved by minimizing the number of cabinets throughout. An open layout featuring ample natural light lets you maximize on both style and cost savings for your kitchen remodel. Keep your cabinet count to a minimum when designing your dream space and stay within budget.

Note: When renovating your home for resale, it's important to consider the cost and value of each addition. While internal organizers can be a great addition to your kitchen for personal use, they may not be the best investment if you're solely focused on increasing your property's value. The cost of these accessories can add up quickly, and you may not see a return on your investment when it's time to sell. Keep this in mind when making renovation decisions.

2. Symmetry

When renovating your kitchen to sell, it's important to keep in mind that simplicity is key. The eye is naturally drawn to appreciate symmetry and repetition, so it's best to keep your cabinetry simple and appealing. Elegance has a way of being understated, and this will appeal to the majority of buyers.

Do: Keep the wall cabinetry sizes the same where possible. Drawers look nice when they are large and expansive - if you have multiple sets, keep them the same size, with the same proportion of drawers.

Don't: Add multiple cabinets in varying sizes. Try to keep the look and feel consistent in the whole space.

3. Light, Bright Spaces

When it comes to buying a home in Albuquerque, many buyers are looking for an open and airy space. A white kitchen is a popular choice because it creates the illusion of a larger space. Additionally, white is a universally appealing color that allows buyers to easily reimagine the space to fit their own personal style.

Do: To create an open and bright space, opt for white cabinetry and a darker bench top for contrast. Keep backsplashes neutral and introduce texture instead of color. A neutral and elegant space will attract more potential buyers.

Don't: Darker cabinetry can make the space feel closed, which may not be desirable for potential buyers. While a strong color may suit personal taste, it may not be appealing to everyone. To attract more potential buyers, white cabinetry is the most popular choice, even though it may not be the most daring option.

4. An Open Layout

Designing your kitchen to have a sensible and open layout is pivotal to increasing property value when you're renovating to sell. 

Do: Have a large open-plan space with a kitchen island if possible. Buyers often want to multitask in the kitchen. They want to cook, have their kids do their homework and socialize in it.

Don't: Place your kitchen in a small and poky room. The kitchen is now often the hub of the house, and buyers want to see a kitchen that is interactive and sociable.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Learn More!

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

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Home staging is a crucial aspect of the selling process, as it leaves a lasting impression on potential Albuquerque home buyers. Homeowners often worry about the expenses involved in staging their homes, but there are several cost-effective strategies that can help maximize the impact of their staging efforts. These include DIY projects, repurposing existing items, and prioritizing key areas. By implementing these budget-friendly tips and tricks, homeowners can stage their homes without depleting their resources before making a sale.

Embrace DIY Projects

Staging your home on a budget can be achieved through do-it-yourself projects like painting, refinishing furniture, and creating artwork. A fresh coat of neutral-colored paint can instantly refresh a room, while new hardware and a fresh finish can give an old dresser a modern look. By taking on these projects yourself, you can save money and still achieve a professionally staged appearance.

Repurpose and Rearrange Existing Items

To stage your home on a budget, start by taking inventory of your furniture, accessories, and decorative pieces. Consider repurposing items to create a more appealing space. For example, move a decorative mirror from the bedroom to the living room to make the space appear larger and brighter. Use decorative pillows from the guest room to add color and texture to your living room couch. Get creative with your existing items to save money and give your home a fresh, new look.

Prioritize Key Areas

When staging a home on a budget, prioritizing key areas is crucial. The living room, kitchen, and master bedroom are the most important spaces as buyers spend the most time there. To make these rooms inviting and functional, decluttering, rearranging furniture, and adding strategic accessories are essential.

To make the living room comfortable and encourage conversation, arrange the seating accordingly. In the kitchen, clear the countertops of unnecessary items and highlight the ample storage space available. In the master bedroom, create a calming and inviting atmosphere by using cozy bedding and minimizing distractions.

Rent or Borrow Furniture and Accessories

If your current furniture and accessories are not enough for staging your home, renting or borrowing items is a good option. Home staging companies offer rental services for furniture and accessories at a lower cost than buying new ones. You can also ask your friends or family if they have anything you could borrow for a short period.

Incorporate Affordable Accessories

When it comes to home staging, small and affordable accessories can have a significant impact. Fresh flowers, decorative throw pillows, and stylish area rugs are just a few examples of items that can instantly elevate a room's appearance without breaking the bank. Look for budget-friendly options at discount stores, online retailers, or even local thrift shops to achieve a polished look without spending a fortune.

Staging your home on a budget is possible without compromising quality or style. You can achieve this by using DIY projects, repurposing existing items, prioritizing key areas, renting or borrowing furniture, and incorporating affordable accessories. These cost-effective strategies can help you create a beautiful and inviting space that appeals to potential buyers. By maximizing the impact of your home staging efforts while minimizing your investment, you can achieve a successful and profitable sale.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Learn More!

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

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

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

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

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8104 Eagle Rock Avenue NE, Albuquerque, NM 87122

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

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