Real Estate Information Archive

When you decide to buy or sell a home in Albuquerque, you need to first decide who you’re going to have on your side to help you complete your transaction succesfully. Albuquerque real estate professionals come in three types - agents, brokers, and Realtors. So what really is the difference between them, and why does it matter?

There are overlaps between all three, but at the same time, distinctions.

Agents

A real estate agent is a person working in the field who has studied for and passed the relevant real estate courses. They are also licensed to practice in the state of New Mexico.

An agent represents either the buyer or the seller in a transaction. Some specialize in working with buyers, others with sellers, others do both.

An agent's job description includes collecting offers and counteroffers, negotiating, and assisting clients with the paperwork. Real estate agents are able to provide their clients with additional services that aid in tying up loose ends, such as arranging any necessary home inspections. They usually receive a commission on a successful transaction, so they receive a percentage of the sale price.

Brokers

A real estate broker is someone with more education than is required to become a real estate agent and has obtained their broker license. A real estate broker might need to complete courses in topics like insurance, taxes, and ethics. Brokers also learn topics like property management and real estate investments. The coursework is more in-depth compared to what agents are required to complete.

There are three types of brokers.

A principal or designated broker is a person who works in every real estate office. They make sure the legal compliance of the office. Additionally, they get a commission of the sales their agents make. Next, there’s a managing broker, who may have greater influence over the agents at the office. An associate broker works under a managing broker but usually doesn’t supervise others.

Real estate brokers can work for themselves. They can also hire agents who work under them.

After passing a broker's exam, you can continue to work under another broker, in which case you will be called an associate broker. This was briefly touched upon earlier.

Brokers and real estate agents share the same responsibilities. The main difference is that a broker may earn more money than an agent by having a team under their management.

Realtors

Realtor is a third term often used to denote an agent or broker. Realtors belong to the National Association of Realtors or NAR.

NAR members agree to adhere to NAR’s strict ethical guidelines. Besides agents, Realtors can also include other professionals in the industry. For instance, property managers and appraisers can be Realtors since it's a profession that originates from a group membership.

When you become a Realtor, you can use the trademark as part of your title.

This trademark has been assigned to Sandi Pressley since 1979. Sandi has listed and sold more homes than any other agent throughout New Mexico. Through her dedication and hard work, she has been able to help over 12,200 families buy or sell their property. Sandi has been the top realtor in Albuquerque as well as in the state of New Mexico for 35 consecutive years. Sandi and her dedicated team of real estate professionals stand ready to help you realize your real estate goals in Albuquerque.

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

Are you ready to move into your ideal home in Albuquerque? Since the busy Spring home selling season is coming soon, now is the perfect time to find the home of your dreams. These homes are sure to go fast, so make sure you schedule a viewing today!

Feel free to contact Sandi Pressley and her team at 505-263-2173 to get more information and schedule a viewing of these fine homes. You can check out all of our listings on our Featured Listings page.

8716 MADRE Avenue NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111

$360,000

Precious Inman Patio-Home in highly desirable Canyon Run! Prime NE Heights location, location, location with so many recent updates: FURNACE (2020), HVAC (2020), WATER HEATER (2020), STUCCO (2019), GUTTERS (2019) plus fresh paint and beautiful floors. Featuring 2 living areas, a wet bar, and gas fireplace, this is comfortable living. Oversized Master Bedroom features tons of closet space plus a spa-like master bathroom with double-sinks and separate shower and garden tub. Enjoy your privacy in the backyard under an oversized patio, or spread out indoors with the beautiful sunroom. Updated counters in the kitchen plus newer stainless steel appliances make this home move-in ready.

Learn More!

2509 RIDGECREST Drive SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108

$375,000

Welcome Home to this beautiful brick home situated on a large corner lot close to conveniences. Great curb appeal with curved driveway, large covered porch & garage to the side of home. Featuring desirable split floorplan with spacious living spaces throughout including both formal & informal living & dining options; Two ample master suites for guest or in-law quarters; Fresh interior paint & carpet replaced in 2020; Huge family room w/efficient wood stove opening to the 207 sqft sunroom (not included in square footage); Kitchen features eat at bar plus sunny nook, & lots of cabinet space. Mature landscaping provides trees, shrubs and partial xeriscaping; open patio; & backyard access. **Square footage does not include the 207sqft Sunroom**

Learn More!

14319 MARQUETTE Drive NE, Albuquerque, NM 87123

$399,000

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.

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 intend to sell your home in Albuquerque, painting your stairs will increase the value of your property and enhance its appearance. People often overlook their stairs when they are taking on home improvement projects. But it can be a very easy way to dramatically change the look of your home. Whether you want to give your stairs a makeover or just repaint the back deck, there's paint for every need.

Here's a quick guide to the types of paint that are best for freshening up your interior and exterior stairs. 

Outdoor Stairs

You need a highly durable paint for your outdoor stairs, as they are subjected to high traffic and the elements. You should try an acrylic exterior paint on your wood stairs. There is an acrylic paint made specifically for porches, floors, and exterior stairs. You should stay away from glossy finish paints, which can be slippery when wet.

Satin or eggshell finish paints are the best choice as they can resist dirt and stains while being easily cleaned without creating a slip hazard. For extra safety, you can add a non-slip additive to your paint for extra texture and slip resistance. 

Indoor Stairs

Indoor stairs often don't wear out as much as outdoor stairs, but they still get a lot of foot traffic. Try painting indoor stairs with 100% acrylic paint for easy cleaning. If you want to keep the steps dry during wet weather, you can use semi-gloss paint.

If you plan to paint your indoor stairs in different colors, you might also consider other paint finishes. For example, you could paint the risers and spindles in semigloss paint and use a lower luster paint for the railings and treads to increase safety.

Paint Design Ideas

Your stairs can be a great place for you to let your creative side shine when it comes to painting, since you can paint them in a variety of ways.

One classic approach to painting stairs is to paint the risers and spindles in a light color and the treads and railings in a dark one. This looks nice and adds visual interest to the steps. 

If you like the look of a classic stair runner, but you don't want the risk of tripping, you can paint a runner down the center of your staircase for a great visual effect.

Refinishing Stairs for a Fresh, New Look

Fresh paint is one way you can transform the look of your stairs and brighten the area around them. If you're thinking about refinishing your stairs, its essential to have all the right tools and paint. That way, you'll make your vision a reality. 

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  $660,000

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

As you prepare to put your Albuquerque home on the market for sale, you should think about how to make it more appealing. Many home sellers will paint, add landscaping or make other small, affordable updates to attract buyers. Another affordable project that you can do now is installing new windows.

New window installation is something that many home buyers in Albuquerque look for when looking to buy a new home. New windows are energy-efficient, make a home look more attractive, and you get most of your investment back when the final contract is signed.

Energy Efficient Windows Are What Buyers Are Looking For

If your windows are old wood or aluminum style, most will see that as something that needs replacing. When buyers see projects, they are either not going to make an offer at all, or they might make a lowball offer exploiting it as an excuse to pay less.

If you want to sell your home fast, new windows might be the right move for you.

The moment the new windows are up, you can talk about how much more energy-efficient your home has become since the work was done. You might even go so far as to bring out your heating and cooling bills to back it up. If you have your windows installed a month before you post the "For Sale" sign, you may start to notice some differences.

New Windows Enhance the Look of Residential Properties

While some home buyers are interested in energy-efficient and functional home features, others are interested in how it looks at first glance. If you haven't replaced your windows in thirty years, you're likely to have chips, cracks, and broken glass.

When buyers pull into your driveway, they're going to check the roof, the siding, and the windows to see how well maintained they are. By replacing those old windows with energy efficient ones that match the rest of the home's exterior, it will help you sell the house more quickly. You won't have to spend any time haggling with the price because of the old ones.

How to Tell if It's Time to Replace Your Windows

Now that you know that installing new windows will help you sell your home faster, it's important to figure out when it's time for a window replacement.

There are several factors to take into consideration, including:

• Visible chips, cracks, or water damage to the window frames
• Excessive outside noise coming through the windows
• Feeling drafts leak in when the windows are closed
• Condensation between the layers of glass
• Cracked or broken glass
• Problems opening, closing, or locking the windows
• Cloudy glass
• Recent increases in your energy bills
• Older single-pane windows instead of double-glazed modern windows

After you find one or more of these points to be true, you should start researching what windows are available to replace the old ones.

When you talk with your window contractor, ask about style options as well. A home with new windows will be more energy efficient, but the new windows won't look right if you pick the wrong style. If you did not pick the right window for your home's existing look and structure, homebuyers will be less likely to be attracted by the overall appearance.

Often, home sellers decide to replace windows in homes before selling because they would rather spend some money to get the sale over with quickly. That's just one of the benefits, however. Even if your house didn't sell as fast as you wanted it to, you could still save money on your energy bill while you're still there. That's without mentioning how beautiful the new windows look to those driving by. Someone will eventually see the new energy-efficient windows that really complement your home, and they won't be able to resist making an offer.

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  $660,000

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

If your goal this year is to buy a new home in Albuqueurque, then now is the time check out these new properties just listed on our website! Since Spring is coming up soon, now is the perfect time to beat the busy home buying season and snatch up the home of your dreams. The Albuquerque real estate scene has limited inventory, so these homes are sure to go fast.

Feel free to contact Sandi Pressley and her team at 505-263-2173 to get more information and schedule a viewing of these fine homes. You can check out all of our listings on our Featured Listings page.

8404 RANCHO VECINO Court NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120

$310,000

True one story beauty in Rancho Sereno. This spacious home has high ceilings, light-filled rooms, two living areas, 4 good sized bedrooms and a 3 car garage. Well appointed kitchen, with island, ample countertops and cabinets. Stainless Refrigerator stays with home. New TPO roof in Oct 2020. Refrigerated Air! Home has been well maintained. Great location, easy access to Paseo Del Norte, and amenities.

Learn More!

14319 MARQUETTE Drive NE, Albuquerque, NM 87123

$399,000

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.

Learn More!

5916 KATHRYN Avenue SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108

$239,000

WOW! Beautiful remodel with so many updates including ROOF, ELECTRICAL, FURNACE, EVAP COOLER, WATER HEATER, BATHS, INTERIOR PAINT, CARPET, REFINSHED WOOD FLOORS, FRONT DOOR & STORM DOOR! TWO large living areas! Kitchen features LG gas stove with double oven & Quartz countertops! Open living room features wood floors, fireplace, recessed lighting and barn door to family room. HUGE family room features wood ceiling, wood stove, extra flex room/office and separate laundry room. Huge lot with BACKYARD ACCESS & NEW GATE! Close to UNM, CNM, UNM Hospital, Nob Hill!

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.

Most home sellers in Albuquerque don't think that selling a home during the holidays is a good idea. It's a busy time of year for most people.

But there are some real benefits of selling your home during the holiday season. There's less competition for one thing, as most people sell during the spring and summer. Buyers also have more time off and are more available for showings.

If you decide to sell your home during the holidays, there are things you can do to make it an easier process.

Stage It Accordingly

You can use the holidays to make your home more inviting to buyers. Just make sure not to overdo it. You can add some simple and tasteful decorations that will warm up the home without hiding it's features.

Focus on the cozy features like the fireplace. And it’s a great time to use the classic real estate trick of baking cookies when someone comes for a showing. Make sure your home is warm temperature-wise as well.

Clean-Up the Curb Appeal

Winter may make landscaping a little more challenging, but you need to make your yard as appealing as you can. Clean up the yard, clean up the exterior of your home, and illuminate pathways. Also make sure that there’s a mat at the door so people coming to see your house can wipe their feet.

Price It Accordingly

Your agent can work with you to develop the right pricing strategy based on their assessment of the data. Many variables go into pricing, but you may need to go a little lower than you’d like if you are selling around the holidays.

If you’re selling during the holidays, it’s not the time to haggle. During this time of year, it’s often better to price it right from the start instead of making price reductions later.

Work with a Reliable Agent

Working with an experienced agent during the holidays will make all the difference. Sandi Pressley and her team have been rated the #1 real estate agents in New Mexico, so you can count on them to help you make the sale.

Be Flexible About Showings

During the holiday season, everyone is busy and may have more plans than usual, but if you’re selling your home, you need to be flexible and accessible when it comes to showings. It’s a challenging time, so if someone wants to see your home, you need to do everything you can to facilitate that.

If you can manage your expectations before you put your Albuquerque home on the marketing during the holidays, it’s going to help you stay more relaxed and also hopefully help you sell your house faster.

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!

6815 VISTA ANTIGUA Drive NW, Albuquerque, NM  $450,000

5 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms (2 full, 1 half) / 3334 Square Feet

INCREDIBLE OUTDOOR LIVING! ACROSS FROM THE PARK! HUGE CORNER LOT! NEW CARPET!! Gorgeous 5BDR/3BA/3CG with so many upgrades! ONE BDR/BATH on the main level! LOFT! Refrigerated Air! Tankless water heater! Huge great room open to the kitchen featuring tile flooring, cozy fireplace & wall of sliding doors provides lots of natural light! Beautiful wrought iron stairway! Beautiful kitchen features upgraded cabinetry with crown molding, granite countertops, SS appliances, gas cooktop, double wall oven, entertainment island & bkfst bar & large walk-in pantry. Formal dining room. Private master suite features dual sink vanity, sep shower, garden tub, two walk-in closets. Incredible outdoor living space with covered & open patios to entertain family & friends, trees, shrubs, & Synlawn!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Selling a home in Albuquerque is an opportunity to make a significant amount of money. And you can maximize that opportunity by enhancing your home's curb appeal. Making your home stand out in the market is crucial to making a quick sale and getting the highest offer possible. Here are some simple and effective ideas for enhancing your curb appeal that also won't break the bank.

Pressure Wash

Giving your home a good pressure washing is an affordable and easy way to give your home's exterior a quick and easy makeover. You can rent a pressure washer and most hardware or home improvement stores.

Install New House Numbers

If your house has old or faded house numbers on it, install some new numbers to spruce up the curb appeal. Try to match your new house numbers with the finish that is on your exterior light fixtures. Simple house numbers can start at $2.00 for a number or you can look into customized plaques that can cost $50-$100.

Fresh Doormat

A fresh front doormat offers a welcome greeting to visitors. What better way to greet guests, while also keeping the dirt where it belongs - outside.

Install a Porch Swing

A cozy wooden porch swing adds a spot to relax outside, while also enhancing your curb appeal. Before purchasing a new porch swing, be sure to measure your space.

Paint the Front Door

You can paint your front door for less than $50. Giving your front door a new coat of paint will add brightness and revive your house. Pick a bold color that makes your house stick out, but make sure to match it to the rest of the colors on your house. Properly prep all surfaces before you paint so you'll get great results that will last for years to come.

Install a New Door Knob

While you're paining your front door, you can add an eye-catching door knob and punch up the design of the front of your house. With a wide range of prices and styles, you have endless options. Today, there are several safety door locks on the market that have cameras or numerical codes that will unlock the door.

Plant a Tree

Planting a tree is one of the most common ways to add curb appeal to your house. Before you plant a tree, consider how big the tree will get and how it will affect your house. If you have enough space, try planting two trees to frame your house or your entryway.

Outdoor Furniture

Adding seating space will give your home charm. Porch furniture can be found at antique or second hand stores and can easily be painted. Just add fresh cushions and they will look like new.

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!

13504 DESERT ZINNIA Court NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111  $1,125,000

4 Bedrooms / 4 Bathrooms (4 full, 0 half) / 4556 Square Feet

Highly Sought after High Desert Contemporary Southwestern Beauty. Custom built for Original owner. Well Situated on .86 acre lot to maximize the spectacular Mountain and City views! Incredible floor plan features 4 spacious en-suite bedrooms all with private bathrooms, Dual Masters, with the largest one on main level. Gorgeous, sunny kitchen with quartz counter tops, opens onto bright, light breakfast nook and family room. Complete with kitchen island, double ovens. Soaring ceilings throughout - with walls of windows to enjoy the views from every room. Approx 1500 sqft of wrap around decks/patios on front and back of home can be accessed from all bedrooms. Gorgeous serene courtyard with water feature. Spectacular low maintenance landscaping front and back! Newer TPO top of the line roof.

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team