Real Estate Information Archive

Albuquerque, the Balloon Fiesta still gets us excited after all these years! Can you feel that excitement building around Albuquerque as the festival nears? The 53rd ExxonMobil Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta takes place October 4-12, 2025, and trust me when I tell you this is THE event that puts our beautiful city on the world map in the most spectacular way possible!

Imagine that you're standing on the field at dawn, hot coffee steaming in your hands, watching over 500 colorful hot air balloons rising over the New Mexico landscape. The silence is broken only by the whoosh of burners and the gasps of wonder from children and adults alike. Get ready to experience pure magic, right here in our backyard!

A festival born from birthday party fun. Here's a fun fact that'll blow your mind: this incredible festival started in 1972 with a modest 13 balloons, and thanks to an eccentric family birthday party, a fortuitous weather pattern known as the "Albuquerque box" and the first successful balloon piloted across the Atlantic Ocean, Albuquerque has hosted the world's largest hot air balloon festival for more than 50 years. What began as Sid Cutter's creative way to celebrate his mother's birthday has evolved into a global phenomenon that attracts people from every corner of the earth.

The numbers are absolutely staggering and make you proud to call Albuquerque home. In 2015, the fiesta logged 955,703 visitors, and the nine-day festival attracted more than 800,000 visitors to watch 500 piloted balloons. Can you imagine that many people coming to celebrate something that happens right in our community? The fiesta is one of Albuquerque's most prominent tourist attractions. It constitutes a significant source of income for the city and local businesses, proving that our little balloon party has become an economic powerhouse, too!

Now let's talk about the crown jewel of the entire festival – the Mass Ascension. A Mass Ascension happens when all 500+ balloons launch from Balloon Fiesta Park. It will take approximately 2 hours for all 500 balloons to ascend. Picture yourself surrounded by families from around the world, all looking up in wonder, as, weather permitting, balloons begin to launch at about 7:00 a.m. on mass ascension days, led by a balloon flying the American flag to the strains of The Star Spangled Banner.

The coordination involved is absolutely incredible! Experienced Launch directors, also known as zebras because of their black-and-white-striped outfits, serve as traffic cops, coordinating the launch and ascent. Hence, balloons leave the field in a safe and coordinated manner. It's like watching the most beautiful, colorful traffic jam you've ever seen, except everyone's floating gracefully into our stunning New Mexico sky!

And here's a statistic that'll make you want to grab your camera: the 2019 Mass Ascension had 524 hot air balloons and is called the "greatest mass hot air balloon ascent" according to Guinness World Records. You could literally be witnessing world record-breaking moments right here in our hometown!

What makes this festival truly special for families is that it's so much more than just watching balloons float by, though that alone is worth the price of admission! You'll hear the music coming from the various stages all day, and see performers strolling through the festival crowds, creating an incredible carnival atmosphere where every turn brings a new surprise.

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is almost here and about to launch nine days of October fun. Are you ready for enchanted skies filled with uniquely shaped balloon rodeos, twilight balloon glows, and vibrant balloon-filled skies? Your kids will lose it as they get mesmerized when they see the unique, special-shaped balloons – we're talking about massive floating characters, animals, and objects that look like they've jumped straight out of a storybook and into our desert sky!

The evening balloon glows are pure enchantment. Imagine hundreds of balloons tethered to the ground, shining like enormous colorful lanterns against the dusky New Mexico sunset. It's the kind of sight that makes grown adults tear up and kids believe in magic again.

The Pressley Team’s insider tips for planning your day at the fest. Arriving at Balloon Fiesta Park is fun by itself, so put on some New Mexico layers for the weather, put a hat on, pack some sunscreen, grab your camera, and get ready for lift off into a world of color and wonder at the 2025 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta from Saturday, October 4, through Sunday, October 12!

Here's some special information for your planning: festival tickets are only $15 per person, per session, making this one of the most affordable world-class events you'll find anywhere. Monday, October 6, 2025, will be New Mexico Day at the Balloon Fiesta, which is always extra special for us locals!

The festival has made attending easier than ever with official parking and Park & Ride options for easy event access. Buses run from remote lots to Balloon Fiesta Park at 4 a.m. and 5:30 a.m., with inbound service ending at 7 a.m., so you can focus on the magic instead of worrying about logistics.

Do you know why Albuquerque is the perfect balloon capital? There's something truly special about our high desert location that makes this festival possible. The Rio Grande Valley brings brisk autumn mornings, and the Sandia Mountains create an otherworldly backdrop for the breathtaking majesty of the mass ascensions. The famous "Albuquerque box" wind pattern allows pilots incredible control over their balloons, making our skies the perfect natural amphitheater for this aerial ballet.

Albuquerque also boasts the most significant number of in-state/resident balloonists, with over 300 people, which means this isn't just a tourist attraction – it's a celebration of our local ballooning community that's passionate about sharing its love of flight with the world.

We're the Sandi Pressley Team, longtime residents and professionals in this incredible city, and we can tell you that there's nothing quite like October in Albuquerque. The crisp mornings, brilliant blue skies, and desert skies filled with over 500 balloons floating over the mountains and mesas create a sensory experience and special memories that last a lifetime.

Living in Albuquerque is magical, and the balloon festival represents how magical living in Albuquerque is. We have this unique blend of high desert beauty, perfect weather, rich cultural traditions, and a community that knows how to celebrate life in grand style. When families visit from around the world and fall in love with our city during Balloon Fiesta, we're never surprised – we know they're seeing Albuquerque at its absolute finest.

In our experience, the festival creates these incredible family moments that build family traditions and create stories that have been told for decades. Grandparents, parents, and children all stand together in wonder, sharing the same sense of awe at the beauty unfolding above them, and creating memories that will last forever.

Are you a long-time Albuquerque resident who's somehow never made it to Balloon Fiesta, or are you planning your very first visit? 2025 is the perfect year to experience this incredible celebration. We expect the October weather to be perfect; the fall colors in our surrounding mountains provide a stunning backdrop for photography, and the sense of community and celebration is infectious.

From the moment you walk onto Balloon Fiesta Park in the crisp, autumn air and pre-dawn darkness, to the final glow of the evening events, your festival experience reminds you why Albuquerque is truly like nowhere else on earth. Experience the pure joy of this festival. The balloon festival's recipe combines natural beauty, human ingenuity, artistic expression, and passion to create something special that's impossible to duplicate.

Mark your calendars for October 4-12, 2025, and get ready to see your city transformed into the world's most spectacular balloon launch site. Come out to experience the magic of Balloon Fiesta. Once you do, you'll understand why people travel from every continent to witness this incredible celebration of flight, community, and the endless possibilities that await when we dare to lift off into the vast New Mexico sky.

Discover Albuquerque. The Balloon Fiesta is just one of the many incredible reasons why families and individuals fall in love with calling Albuquerque home. As longtime residents and real estate professionals, the Sandi Pressley Team has helped countless families discover all the fantastic opportunities our vibrant city has to offer, from our stunning natural beauty and thriving community events like this world-famous festival to our rich cultural heritage.

Albuquerque is such a special place to live, work, and play. We'd love to help you discover all the incredible neighborhoods, amenities, and lifestyle opportunities that make our city so unique! We're ready when you are. Give us a call. Let's talk about how you can make Albuquerque your home and enjoy front-row seats to this magical festival every single year! Visit us at https://www.albuquerquehomesolutions.com/ or give us a call at (505) 263-2173.

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK

1339 Sara Way SE / Rio Rancho, NM 87124

Southwest beauty on story 3BDR/2BA/3CG! Outdoor courtyard, corner lot, private backyard has tiered garden, outdoor BBQ area, rooftop view deck! Great room features wall of windows, vigas, Kiva fireplace, tile flooring. SW style kitchen features lot of cabinets, East facing sunny bkfst nook, bkfast bar for gathering & large pantry. Refrigerator, washer & dryer stay. Radiant heat and AC. Primary bedroom has a separate office w/glass doors, updated bath with granite countertops, furniture style self closing cabs, oversized shower, walk-in closet with closet organizer. 3car finished garage has a separate storage room for storage or workshop. Close to Thompson Fenceline Trail, shopping, parks!

GET YOUR MORNING INSPIRATION WITH THE Sandi Pressley TEAM!

Órale! Hey Albuquerque, the most exciting time of the year is almost here! Get ready for 11 fun-filled days Albuquerque! The 2025 New Mexico State Fair is just around the corner, and we couldn't be more thrilled to share all the incredible fun waiting for you and your familia from September 4-14 at EXPO New Mexico. As lifelong Albuquerqueños who've been calling this amazing city home for decades, the Sandi Pressley Team knows there's nothing quite like fair time to bring our community together for pure, unforgettable joy!

Whether you're a longtime New Mexican or new to the Land of Enchantment, this year's fair promises to be absolutely spectacular. From heart-pounding rodeo action to mouth-watering green chile everything, from stunning local artistry to thrilling carnival rides that'll have the kids (and let's be honest, the adults too!) squealing with delight – this is your invitation to experience the very best of what makes New Mexico so special.

Daily specials and discounts allow Albuquerque families to enjoy the fair together. How would you like to save some money while having the time of your life? New Mexico State Fair officials have announced fantastic discounts and special recognition days throughout the fair, because, as General Manager Dan Mourning says, they seek to provide affordable options to ensure everyone has the opportunity to experience the magic.

Here are some of the great money-saving opportunities:

Military and Veterans Appreciation Day (September 9): Active-duty military personnel and veterans receive free admission with proper identification – it's our way of saying thank you for your service! Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to experience all the special tributes and ceremonies honoring our heroes.

School Employee Days: Teachers and school employees get free admission with proof of employment – because our educators deserve all the fun after getting our kids ready for another school year!

First Responder Days: Firefighters and first responders get free admission with a valid ID – we're celebrating the brave men and women who keep our community safe every single day.

State Employee Specials: State employees can get $10 admission (on-site only) with proof of state employment throughout the fair.

And here's a secret we love sharing with our neighbors: each food vendor offers a select menu item for just $5 on certain days, making it even easier to sample all the delicious treats!

One of our absolute favorite aspects of the New Mexico State Fair is Main Street Days, because it feels like the whole community comes alive. The daily Main Street celebrations are like having a different festival every single day! Each day brings a unique theme that celebrates different aspects of our incredible community:

September 5: Main Street at Night – Experience the magic of the fair after dark with special evening entertainment and that enchanting fair atmosphere under the stars.

September 6: MOPARs, Classic VWs, and Classic Jaguars Car Show – Classic car enthusiasts, this one's for you! Main Street transforms into a vintage automotive wonderland.

September 7: Antique Cars and Classic Tractors Show – From gleaming chrome to restored farming equipment, it's a celebration of American craftsmanship and agricultural heritage.

September 8: Seniors' Celebration and Healthy Living Day – Booths and vendors geared toward senior citizens and healthy living feature on Main Street, with free flu shots and health screenings available.

September 9: Military and Veterans Appreciation Day – A special tribute ceremony at 11 a.m. at the NMSF pavilion stage, honoring our service members with the respect and gratitude they deserve.

September 10: Pathway to College and Career Day – Multiple trade schools and higher education institutions from New Mexico and surrounding states provide information for prospective students, parents, and teachers.

September 11: New Mexico True Day and Gathering of Counties – A celebration of New Mexico and everything unique about our state, where guests can get information about places all over New Mexico and plan their next adventure.

September 12: Science, Technology, and Environmental Appreciation Day & Main Street at Night – Innovation meets celebration as we highlight the cutting-edge work happening right here in New Mexico.

September 13: Hot Rods and Custom Cars/Classic Mustangs – Rev your engines for this high-octane celebration of American muscle and custom automotive artistry.

September 14: Classic Cars, Trucks, and Corvairs Show – The fair closes with another stunning display of vintage automobiles that'll have car lovers in heaven.

This year's entertainment lineup is absolutely incredible, and we're not just talking about the big-name concerts (though those are amazing too!). The New Mexico State Fair has added more free special entertainment options, also known as spectaculars, to its lineup this year, and trust us, you won't want to miss these!

New Spectacular Shows for 2025:

• Off Axis Stunt Show: A Las Vegas-based high-energy extreme sports acrobatic stunt show that combines BMX, tramp wall, teeterboard, and more into one breathtaking act
• JUMP! The Ultimate Stunt Dog Show: Talented pups performing with frisbees, completing agility courses, and dock diving – perfect for the whole family!
• Break-A-Boyz: A breakdancing group combining acrobats, comedy, vintage street style, and old-school beats
• Buckets N Boards: A high-energy musical comedy show with precise percussion, ridiculous songs, and tap dancing

Concert Series Lineup: The entertainment roster features some incredible headliners. Country music icon Wynonna Judd opens the concert series on September 5, followed by hip-hop legends Cypress Hill on September 6, Grupo Marca Registrada on September 12, and country favorite Clay Walker, who closes out the concerts on September 13.

Don't miss Soundwave NM on Sunday, September 7, starting at 11 a.m. at Tingley Coliseum – a first-of-its-kind music festival promoting local New Mexican musicians!

As you would expect, the rodeo action is second to none and will get your heart pounding. There's nothing like watching real cowboys and seeing the real Wild West action at the New Mexico State Fair's professional rodeos. Come out to watch world-class cowboys and cowgirls compete in heart-stopping events, including bull riding, barrel racing, and bronc riding:

• September 9: NMBRA Barrel Racing – Free admission!
• September 10, 11, and 14: Chevron PRCA Rodeo – Professional rodeo at its finest

Let's talk about the real reason we all come to the fair – THE FOOD! Aside from the landscapes and the friendly locals, the number one thing people miss when outside of New Mexico is the food, and there's no surprise there with red or green chile, special sweet treats, and the most intricate flavor palette this side of the Mississippi.

Everyone should check out the Food Competitions:

• September 4: Candy Contest; September 5: Chile Contest; September 8: Green Chile Cheeseburger Challenge and Bread Contest; September 9: International Food Contest; September 12: Cake Contest and Cookie Contest; September 13: Junior Baking Contest; September 14: Pie Contest

Explore the new Food Adventures added this year: This year's new savory options include specialty mac and cheese (featuring lobster, bacon, and additional varieties) and Korean corn dogs. For those with a sweet tooth, you'll find Dubai chocolate sundaes and pineapple whip (think pineapple soft-serve)!

Grab the whole family and come out to make lasting memories. Sure, the fair is entertaining,  but what really stands out to us is that it’s an experience for making memories! From the petting farm on the Box Car Lawn, where kids can feed goats, sheep, and llamas, to the Indian Village and Villa Hispana showcasing our rich cultural heritage, every corner offers something magical for families.

The fair's midway offers classic carnival experiences with modern thrills: traditional carnival rides for all ages, games of skill and chance, cotton candy, funnel cakes, and fair food favorites, plus live midway entertainment throughout the day.

Don't miss Mutton Bustin' – those gentle, giggle-inducing thrills that'll have the whole family cheering!

We’ve Made Going to the Fair Easy for YOU

Fair Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday

Special Hours:

• Midway opens 2:00 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10:00 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays
• Kiddie Land opens 12:00 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10:00 a.m. Saturday-Sunday

Pricing: Online tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors (65 years and older), and $10 for children (6-12 years old), and are free for children 5 years and under. Pro tip: Buy online to save money!

The Sandi Pressley Team: Your Albuquerque Insiders

We've had the incredible privilege of watching our city grow and thrive over the years. As longtime Albuquerque residents and real estate professionals, we've helped countless families find their perfect homes in neighborhoods from the Northeast Heights to the Westside, from downtown lofts to Foothills retreats. But more than that, we've been part of this community's heartbeat – attending every State Fair, cheering at Isotopes games, hiking the Sandias, and celebrating what makes Albuquerque absolutely magical.

The New Mexico State Fair has been a favorite gathering place for New Mexicans since 1938, celebrating local food, competition, culture, creativity, and our rich agricultural heritage. We're honored to be part of this incredible tradition year after year.

When people ask us what makes Albuquerque special, we tell them it's moments like these – when our entire community comes together for 11 days of pure joy, celebration, and connection. It's the green chile cheeseburger that tastes better because you're sharing it with friends. It's the way kids' eyes light up when they see the Ferris wheel for the first time. It's the pride we feel watching local artisans showcase generations of traditional crafts.

Whether you're considering making Albuquerque your home or you're already part of our vibrant community, we're here to serve as your trusted advisors for everything Albuquerque. From the best neighborhoods for families to the hidden gems locals love, from investment opportunities to dream homes – we know this city inside and out because we've lived it, loved it, and made it our home.

Located just five miles east of downtown Albuquerque at EXPO NM, the New Mexico State Fair has consistently been in the top 5 ranked fairs in the nation based on affordability, programming, and weather. And honestly? It’s another event that reminds us of why we love living in Albuquerque.

The fair kicks off tomorrow, so be sure to add the fair to your calendar for September 4-14, 2025, and prepare to experience the very best of New Mexico's culture, creativity, and community spirit. We promise that your 2025 New Mexico State Fair experience will be fun and that you’ll enjoy the celebration.

Whether you're craving that perfect green chile cheeseburger, ready to cheer on world-class rodeo athletes, excited to discover local artisans, or just want to create magical memories with your family, this fair has something for everyone.

See you at the fair, neighbors! ¡Vamos!

Ready to explore everything Albuquerque has to offer, from State Fair fun to finding your dream home? The Sandi Pressley Team is here to help you navigate all the best our city has to offer!

Contact The Sandi Pressley Team Today:

📞 Phone: (505)263-2173
🌐 Website: https://www.sandisells.com/

Your trusted Albuquerque real estate experts and proud community members

¡Órale! Let's make some memories at the fair!

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK

106 Calle Playa Del Sol NE / Albuquerque, NM 87109

Welcome to your future home in the enchanting Villa Encantada! Thistownhome is a gem, featuring TPO roof and a water heater installed both done in 2023! Enjoy the fresh backyard fence for added privacy. The home offers three spacious bedrooms upstairs, a cozy kitchen nook perfect for morning coffee, and breathtaking high ceilings in the great room that add an airyelegance. You'll love the convenience of being close to a golf course, fine dining,shopping, and just minutes from the freeway, making commutes effortless. Allappliances will convey with an acceptable offer, making this home truly move-inready. Create lifelong memories in this beautiful residence!

GET YOUR MORNING INSPIRATION WITH THE Sandi Pressley TEAM!

Thanks for stopping by! Since Spring officially arrives tomorrow, I wanted to share what makes this time of year so special here in our beautiful Albuquerque.

The Spring Equinox is one of nature's most perfectly balanced moments—when day and night are equal in length across the globe. This year, the equinox falls on Thursday, March 20, at 3:06 AM Mountain Daylight Time. As we welcome this moment of perfect equilibrium, there's something magical about experiencing the seasonal transition in our high desert landscape.

This year's Spring Equinox is particularly exciting because we may see the Northern Lights over Albuquerque! Solar activity has been increasing recently, and while we're not typically positioned to witness this spectacular phenomenon, scientists predict that a moderate to strong geomagnetic storm could make the aurora visible as far south as New Mexico tomorrow night. If you want to catch this rare light show, head away from city lights to places like the Sandia Foothills or the Valles Caldera between 10 PM and 2 AM. Remember to bring warm clothing—our spring nights can still have quite a chill!

Here in Albuquerque, we celebrate the arrival of spring in ways that honor our diverse cultural heritage and unique natural environment. The Albuquerque Bio Park Botanic Garden is hosting its annual "Spring to Life" event this weekend, where you can witness thousands of native plants bursting into bloom. My team and I have always enjoyed the traditional Spring Blessing ceremony at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, which beautifully honors the agricultural traditions and seasonal cycles important to Pueblo cultures.

Suppose you're like me and can't wait to get your hands in the soil. In that case, the Albuquerque Master Gardeners are holding their Spring Plant Sale this Saturday at the Albuquerque Garden Center. Over the years, I've found some of my garden's most resilient and beautiful native plants there. And don't miss the Spring Equinox Drum Circle at the Open Space Visitor Center—there's something profoundly connecting about gathering with the community as we welcome the new season.

The changing season also brings some of Albuquerque's most pleasant weather, perfect for exploring our city's incredible outdoor spaces. The bosque trails along the Rio Grande are coming alive with new growth, and wildflowers will soon begin carpeting the foothills. As someone who's hiked these trails for decades, I can tell you there's no better time to experience the natural beauty that makes our city unique.

As your Albuquerque real estate expert and fellow community member, my team and I at Sandi Pressley Home Solutions understand that our city is more than just a place to live—it is a vibrant, evolving community with rich traditions and endless opportunities to connect. 

We're recognized for knowing the Albuquerque housing market and ALL THINGS ALBUQUERQUE. Whether you're a lifelong resident or new to our sunny corner of New Mexico, we're passionate about helping you feel at home here. We'll be your guide to the best neighborhoods for catching those mountain sunsets and for insider tips on local festivals.

Are you interested in moving this spring or how seasonal changes might affect our local real estate market? Then let's chat! You can reach me at (505) 263-2173 or visit our website at https://www.albuquerquehomesolutions.com/ for more insights about living and thriving in this beautiful city we call home. Or better yet, let's meet for coffee at one of our excellent local cafés to discuss your questions. After all, springtime in Albuquerque is too beautiful to spend indoors!

Wishing you a balanced and beautiful Spring Equinox,

Sandi Pressley

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!                                                                                                       

7010 Luella Anne Drive NE, ALBUQUERQUE, NM 87109

Welcome Home to this immaculate single-story home. Upgrades include: NEW roof (10/2024), New Refrigerated air (8/2022), New windows (8/2023), Updated Electrical Panel (7/2022), New Water Heater (5/2023), New Rain gutters w/covers (10/2024), New carpet (8/2022), Fresh interior paint (9/2024), Finished garage/paint (8/2022), Gazebo (8/2022). The home offers three bd + office space or 4th bd. RV parking/backyard access! The sunroom is heated/cooled, a beautiful space to relax, overlooking a private yard with lush green grass, two seating areas, and mature trees including Peach, Apricot, and Apple. The auto-sprinkler system runs in both the front and backyard. Schedule a showing today!

GET YOUR MORNING INSPIRATION WITH THE Sandi Pressley TEAM!