Real Estate Information Archive

One thing is for sure, there will always be clothes to wash! Our washer and dryer sure do get a workout and keeping them in top working order is a must. Did you know that you should clean your washing machine once a month?  This not only ensures that the machine itself will last as long as it should, it also ensures that your clothes will be as clean as possible.

It may seem counterintuitive to have to ‘clean your washer’, but over time as the washer itself is cleaning clothes of gunk and grime, that dirt is also building up within the washer along with detergent residue. Your unit can also build up mold and mildew due to the moist and humid temperatures associated with cleaning and often time the room they are housed. This can lead to odors in the machine and ultimately, on your clothes.

So let’s dig in and talk the steps necessary to clean your washing machine properly. If that’s the case, the process is super simple as the washer does all the work. Just follow the instructions from the company.

If you do not have a clean cycle, you’ll want to do the following:

1. Identify the top of washing machine you have. A HE Front & Top Loader will require one approach, while a Non-HE machine requires something slightly different.
2. Decide on the type of cleaner you will use: White vinegar, bleach, or a commercial cleaner. If you’re looking for a non-toxic cleaner, white vinegar will be your choice. Some manufacturers, however, will recommend using a bleach or commercial cleaner, so it is important to check your guide books. You’ll also want to check your guide books for recommended amounts of cleaner to use. **Never mix cleaning solutions! You’ll use one of the solutions and only one.

Steps to cleaning a HE Top or Front Loading machine:

        1.  Choose the “clean” cycle. If your machine doesn’t have this, select the hottest water setting. In some cases, this may be the setting for whites or heavily stained clothes

1. 2. Choose the added rinse cycle if it’s available.
   
   3. Fill the bleach dispenser with your cleanser choice.
   
   4. Fill the tub to the highest level (this will probably be automatic with the clean cycle) and run the machine.
   
   5. If you don’t have a second rinse cycle, run the rinse cycle again manually.

Once you’ve finished the clean cycle, you’re then going use a vinegar dipped cloth to wipe down & thoroughly clean the gasket that seals the door (mildew & mold loves to creep in here), the drum, soap dispensers, and the entire outside of the machine.

Doing a weekly wipe down of your washing machine will also help prevent excess buildup and keep your clothes looking and smelling much cleaner, and again preserving the longevity of your machine.

For more homeowner tips, real estate information, and community highlights, be sure to check our blog frequently and visit our Facebook page.

HOT LISTING OF THE WEEK!

1 SKY MOUNTAIN ROAD, PLACITAS, NM 87043

Welcome home to this architectural gem nestled in peaceful Placitas. With natural light pouring in, you will notice the timeless details of gorgeous beamed ceilings, stamped concrete floors, antique vanities, and stunning antique, solid-wood doors throughout this exquisite property. Featuring SIX kiva fireplaces throughout, and radiant heat floors, you will surely stay cozy yearound. The kitchen showcases abundant storage, oversized pantry, and butcher block counters and is open to the dining room to make entertaining a breeze. Enjoy coffee in the heated sunroom while taking in the panoramic views of the Sandias. Master Suite is enormous, and also features striking views, a beautiful en suite and unbelievable closet full of storage solutions.

GET YOUR MORNING INSPIRATION 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!

Location is the name of the game with these latest HOT properties from the Sandi Pressley Team! Whether you're looking for a truly uniques property or a home close to UNM, restaurants, shopping and more, these listings are the perfect match. 

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!

2115 Lead Avenue SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106

Location, Location, Location! You don't want to miss this charmer close to UNM, restaurants, shopping and more. Beautifully maintained wood floors greet you in this light-filled beauty. Enjoy the open kitchen with lots of cabinet storage and gas cooktop. Home features 2 bedrooms plus a study and a freshly renovated bathroom. This oversized lot gives you tons of options and includes both a water feature and garage. Stucco done in 2011 and all pipes and sewer line replaced in 2015. Come see today!

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.

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

Kitchen remodels are a costly yet popular project among Albuquerque homeowners. With the ongoing pandemic forcing people to spend more time at home, many are considering remodeling their kitchens. To save money, some homeowners opt for the IKEA kitchen route. While it can save thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars, it's important to know certain things about an IKEA kitchen before making a decision.

Designing an IKEA Kitchen

Designing an IKEA kitchen can be challenging, especially if you don't live near a store location. Fortunately, there is an online planning tool available for those who plan to get their kitchen shipped. While going to a store location can simplify the process and help you avoid potential mistakes, the online planning tool can be a helpful alternative.

An IKEA kitchen is designed to be budget-friendly and easy to assemble, much like their furniture. The items are packed and shipped in a way that allows for self-assembly without the need for a contractor. When planning and using the design planner, it is crucial to remember to measure accurately and double-check your measurements.

When planning your kitchen layout, it is important to consider the location of outlets, window openings, and door swings. These factors will impact the placement of appliances and cabinets. After taking measurements, you can then begin to plan out the zones of your kitchen and how everything will flow. Proper planning will ensure a functional and efficient kitchen space.

Are the Cabinets High-Quality?

Custom cabinets can be very expensive, but IKEA cabinets offer a more affordable option. However, it's important to note that IKEA cabinets are made from particleboard and covered in laminate, which may not be preferred by those who prefer solid wood.

Additionally, since IKEA cabinets don't come in custom sizes, a filler piece may be necessary for odd spaces. The 3D planner tool offered by IKEA is a helpful tool for planning your kitchen, as it allows you to visualize how the puzzle pieces of your cabinets will fit together.

When it comes to cabinets, there are a variety of features available to enhance their functionality. Internal organizers can be added to help with organization, while drawer dampeners offer a soft close. Base cabinets are located beneath the counter and come in two depths, with the standard depth being 24 inches. Wall cabinets are installed above the countertops and typically have a depth of 15 inches.

If you want additional storage, which is somewhat like a free-standing pantry, there are tall cabinets. They sit on the floor and are available in two heights—80 or 90 inches.

You can decide between exposed legs and toe kicks for your base cabinets.

What About the Countertop?

While IKEA does offer countertops, it's important to note that their options are limited to laminate or veneer. If you're looking for a wider variety of materials or styles, it may be beneficial to explore other retailers.

Putting it Together

When your IKEA kitchen arrives, you will need to assemble the different pieces and components yourself or hire a contractor. It is recommended that you have your kitchen delivered instead of picking it up. If you have a larger kitchen, you may receive more than 100 boxes.

It is crucial to correctly install all components of your IKEA kitchen to ensure its durability and quality. Proper installation requires putting everything together accurately. If you lack the necessary skills, it is advisable to seek assistance to avoid any mistakes.

If you have an unusual kitchen layout and don't intend to remodel it, your options for an IKEA kitchen may be limited. This is because IKEA kitchens are modular and not easily customizable. The best option for an IKEA kitchen is a straight-line layout.

Whether or not an IKEA kitchen is worth the cost savings depends on your preferences, the layout of your kitchen, how handy you are, and what your budget is.

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.

Learn More!

8104 Eagle Rock Avenue NE, Albuquerque, NM 87122

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

Learn More!

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

Selling a home in Albuquerque on your own, or FSBO, may seem like a good idea to save money and have more control, but it often leads to more stress. Issues that people face when selling their house on their own include setting the right price, marketing the property effectively, navigating legal requirements, and negotiating with buyers. Without the expertise and experience of a real estate agent, these tasks can be daunting and time-consuming.

Setting the Right Price

Selling a house without a real estate agent can lead to difficulty in setting the right price. Emotions attached to the property can cloud judgment, resulting in an overpriced listing that deters potential buyers and prolongs the selling process.

Paperwork

Selling a home involves a lot of paperwork that can be difficult to understand. Real estate agents undergo extensive training to comprehend legal jargon and can handle all the necessary paperwork on your behalf. Hiring a professional to handle the paperwork can be a convincing reason to choose a real estate agent.

Selling in Your Desired Timeframe

Home sellers don’t always realize how long the process takes. You need to get your home ready to sell, show it to buyers, close the sale, and more. All of this can add up, making the process take longer than people expect. As such, many will set unrealistic deadlines and be disappointed and frustrated when they fall short.

Getting Your Home Ready to Sell

Most homes in Albuquerque need to be prepared to sell.  There’s almost always some repairs to be made, along with cleaning and staging. This is a crucial part of the process that many homeowners overlook when they sell their own home. Home buyers typically will look at a home online and judge the home by the photos. If they don’t see a clean home, they will just go to the next listing.

Why go through all of these stressful obstacles on your own? Hiring an experienced agent, such as Sandi Pressley and her team, will alleviate a great deal of stress and confusion during the selling process, as well as help you make more money in the end.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

4601 Rio Grande Lane NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107

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

Learn More!

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

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Now is the perfect time to start looking for a great home for sale in Albuquerque. These latest HOT properties from The Sandi Pressley Team are prime examples of the real estate market in Albuquerque. If you're ready to find the perfect home for sale, give us a call!

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!

124 PAA KO Drive, Sandia Park, NM 87047

Welcome home to the Paa-ko lifestyle with this next-to-new custom home! Less than 3 years old, this gem has all the bells & whistles. Featuring high-end finishes like engineered oak floors, quartz counters, custom solid doors and cabinets, this one needs to be seen to be believed. Enter through the custom solar, iron gate and appreciate the fully paved driveway with extra parking pads and a 3-car, oversized garage complete with epoxy floors. Completely landscaped, the exterior has both drip & sprinkler irrigation, room for all your toys, gutters, plus over 300sqft of covered outdoor space to enjoy the unparalleled views. 

Learn More!

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

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

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

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

Set a Moving Budget

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

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

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

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

Downsizing Before the Move

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

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

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

DIY Strategies for Relocation Savings

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

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

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

Tips for Finding Affordable Movers or Rental Trucks

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

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

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

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

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

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

Learn More!

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

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

If you're looking for the perfect luxury estate for sale in Albuquerque, your search is over! This stunning estate offers everyting you can imagine, with sweeping architecture and plenty of room for animals. And if you're looking for the ideal mid-prices home, then chek out our other HOT property listed below.

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

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

Learn More!

5336 Jessie Dr NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111

Freshly updated home located in the desirable El Dorado HS district. Paint, LV flooring, quartz countertops in kitchen, remodeled bathrooms, newer furnace. Roof replacement in 2020. Double entry doors welcome you into this bright and cheery home. Open floor plan with kitchen, dining room flowing into the great room with a gas fireplace. Spacious primary suite with room for sitting area, new carpet and remodel bath/spa. Two more bedrooms with new carpet and good sized closets. Wonderful outdoor space with mature plantings and trees(apple tree & evergreens). Enjoy al fresco dining under the covered patio. Near nature trails, restaurants, shopping and markets. Visit this must see GEM.

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.