Real Estate Information

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

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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.

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Spring has arrived in Albuquerque and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Hiking through the city's trails is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air. The scenic trails around Albuquerque offer a diverse range of volcanic terrain, dirt paths, and a complex trail system that caters to all skill levels. These hiking trails are located in the foothills of the Sandia Mountains and the Cibola National Forest.

Here's a few of the top places to hike in the Albuquerque area:

The Sandia Mountain Foothills

The Sandia Mountains are conveniently located near Albuquerque, offering ample opportunities for outdoor exploration. With 2650 acres of land and numerous trails, visitors can easily immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. Here's a complete list of trailhead access points. Some of the trails include the following:

• Foothills Trail 365
• Embudito Trail 192
• Lower La Luz Trail
• Grassy Hills Loop

The Sandia Mountains / Cibola National Forest

The Cibola National Forest is located on the Eastern face of the Sandia Foothills. It offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels of hiker. The trails are clearly marked, making it easy for visitors to navigate and enjoy the beautiful scenery.You can find a full list of trails at fs.usda.gov. Many of these trail-heads are accessible from the Sandia Peak Scenic Byway (Highway 528).

Some of the best trails in the Cibola National Forest are:

• Cienega Canyon Picnic Site & Interpretive Trail
• La Luz Trail
• The Sandia Crest Trail
• North Crest Trail
• 10k Trailhead
• Tree Springs Trailhead

The Rio Grande Bosque Trails

The Rio Grande Bosque Trails provide 16 miles of paved paths within the city, free from roadways. Dirt trails branching off the main path offer a more secluded experience. These trails interconnect with each other, ensuring a unique adventure with every visit.

West Mesa Hiking

The west side of Albuquerque is home to the Native American Petroglyph National Monument, which showcases volcanic features and ancient petroglyphs. The monument boasts an estimated 24,000 images carved into rocks, offering visitors a journey of discovery. From three of the four trails in the area, you can view these ancient drawings and get a grand view of the modern city below.

The Paseo De Las Mesa Trail in Albuquerque provides a stunning panoramic view of the city. The trail spans 4 miles and is paved, making it perfect for hiking. Additionally, there are numerous trails that branch off and intersect with each other, offering a variety of hiking experiences.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

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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

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.

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

March is Pet Poison Prevention Awareness Month, a time to educate ourselves on what can be harmful to our furry friends here in our Albuquerque homes. Knowing what substances and items can be toxic to our pets is crucial in keeping them healthy and safe. By being aware of potential hazards and taking preventative measures, we can ensure our pets live long, happy lives.

Human Medications

It is important to note that certain human medications can be fatal for pets, including both prescription and over-the-counter drugs. It is crucial to always consult with a veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet, and to store medications in a secure location to prevent accidental ingestion by pets.

Some types of medications to keep away from pets include:

• Cancer medicines

• Antidepressants

• Diet pills

• Cold medications

• Supplements, such as vitamins

• Pain relievers, such as aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen

Chemicals

It's important to keep all chemicals and insecticides locked up to prevent animals from being attracted to their pleasant taste. This includes common household chemicals like bleach and detergents, as well as insect bait, herbicides, and fertilizers, which are all toxic.

When using de-icing salts, it's important to be cautious as pets can ingest them by licking their paws. Even chemicals commonly used for dogs, including tick medication, collars, and shampoos, can be toxic.

Human Food

It's important to be aware that certain human foods can be toxic to pets such as garlic, onions, caffeine, and alcohol. As a responsible pet owner, it's best to avoid feeding your furry friend any human food to ensure their safety and well-being.

It's important to know that certain houseplants like poinsettias and lilies can be harmful to cats. If you have a cat that enjoys nibbling on plants, it's best to keep these out of reach or out of the house altogether. Additionally, chicken bones should never be given to cats or dogs as they can easily break apart and cause internal injuries.

Other Hazards

Cats are known to enjoy playing with string, yarn, and similar toys. However, it's important to be cautious when allowing your cat to play with these items as they can pose a serious risk. String and yarn can easily strangle or choke a cat, and some cats may even chew these items into small pieces which can lead to intestinal blockages or entanglement. It's important to supervise your cat during playtime and provide them with safe, cat-friendly toys to prevent any potential harm.

What to Do If Your Pets Are Poisoned

If you suspect that your pet has ingested a poisonous substance, time is of the essence. The first and most important step is to immediately call your veterinarian. It is crucial to keep their contact information in a readily accessible location, such as on the refrigerator.

If your pet has ingested a poisonous substance, contact the Animal Poison Control center at (888) 426-4435. They will guide you on the appropriate next steps based on the type of poison. It is important to monitor your pet for symptoms, which can vary in onset time. Look out for symptoms such as breathing difficulties, coughing, diarrhea, depression, shaking, vomiting, and weakness.

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

Solar generators are a popular choice for those looking to cut down on electrical expenses or have a backup power supply for thier Albuquerque home. While they are not a new technology, they can be expensive, leading many to question whether they are a better investment than a gas-powered generator. In this blog, we will examine what solar generators are, how they work, and the advantages and disadvantages of investing in one.

What Is a Solar Powered Generator?

Solar generators are portable power hubs that use solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity. These systems are designed to run using energy from the sun or solar power, as opposed to fossil fuels like gas. The solar panels capture the sun's energy, which is then stored in a battery for later use. Solar generators can be used in various settings such as homes, offices, boats, and RVs, as well as on camping trips. They are an excellent way to store backup energy for power outages or strikes.

How Does a Solar Generator Function?

A solar generator consists of four main parts:

• Solar charge controller

• Solar panels

• Battery

• Inverter

Solar panels absorb energy from the sun and store it as DC. The charge controller regulates voltage and sends the electricity to the lithium-ion battery for storage. When needed, the inverter converts the stored charge into AC, allowing appliances to function. Solar generators typically have AC outlets, 12-volt carports, and USB ports for multiple device charging.

Pros of Purchasing a Solar Generator

Noiseless and Easy Maintenance 

The best thing about purchasing a solar generator is its easy maintenance. They also run quietly in the background, with very few moving parts. Reduced friction and noise also mean the chances of your generator breaking down are very low. Therefore, the cost of maintaining a solar generator as compared to a gas generator is very low.

Renewable and Clean Source of Energy 

Solar generators are powered by renewable solar energy, which means they produce clean energy that is free from toxic emissions. Unlike fossil fuels, there is no need to worry about the depletion of resources. Additionally, solar generators have zero negative impact on the environment, making them an eco-friendly and safe option.

Free Energy

Using gas-powered or diesel generators requires paying for fuel, while solar energy is free to use. Investing in a good solar generator system can significantly reduce fuel costs, allowing for substantial savings.

Cons of Purchasing a Solar Generator

Slow Recharge

Solar generator batteries can only be charged during the daytime in bright sunlight. It takes a few hours to charge up the battery completely. On average, solar panels with a power output of 100 W takes around fourteen hours to fill a 12-volt solar battery. Generators that generate power using fossil fuels can be replenished at any time. There is no need to worry about the weather or time of day to generate power.

High Initial Cost

Solar generators are more expensive than gas or fuel generators, with an average cost of twice as much. However, the low maintenance and running costs of solar generators make up for the initial expense in the long run. Gas generators, on the other hand, cost around 1000 USD on average.

Restricted Power Supply 

The size of the battery determines the power capacity of the generator. Portable generators are limited in their ability to power entire homes, but are suitable for charging small electronics. Gas generators have no power limit, depending on the availability of fossil fuels.

What Are Solar Generators Commonly Used For?

Solar generators are ideal for powering smaller appliances and charging devices such as mobile phones and laptops. They are commonly used as backup power for RVs and are also popular for boating and camping trips due to their portability, noise-free operation, and ability to produce clean energy.

However, it's important to note that portable generators are not suitable for powering an entire home grid. To do so, a rooftop solar panel system with sufficient battery storage is required. The number of panels needed and the cost of installation will depend on individual electrical needs and budget.

A solar generator can be a huge investment, but it can help you enjoy essentially free electricity for years to come. The best part is that they are easy to maintain and are noise-free, so investing in either a portable or complete home-grid system is an excellent choice when compared to fossil fuel generators.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

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!

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

As the days get longer and the weather warms up in Albuquerque, it's the perfect time to get outdoors and start tackling some bigger home projects. With the threat of winter storms now gone, it's a great opportunity to look for any damage that may have occurred and make any necessary repairs. Additionally, it's a good idea to get your home and garden prepped and ready for the summer months ahead.

Here are some useful tips on what to look out for this spring, from ensuring proper irrigation to keeping an eye out for pesky mosquitoes and termites.

Clean Gutters and Downspouts

After the last frost has passed, it is essential to have your gutters and downspouts cleaned and repaired. Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause the wood trim at the eaves to rot, leading to a variety of critters entering your attic.

Getting your gutters and downspouts cleaned early in the season can help prevent any damage from spring rains. It is important that gutters and downspouts are clean and running freely. If the downspouts are installed correctly, water is diverted away from the house so that no water is collected around the foundation.

Reseal Exterior Woodwork

Wood decks, fences, railings, trellises, pergolas, and other outdoor structures should be stained or resealed every year or two in order to help them last longer and stay in better condition. This is also a great opportunity to make any needed repairs to woodwork, such as replacing broken boards or filling in gaps. Taking the time to maintain your outdoor structures can help them last for many years.

Check for Signs of Termites

Beginning in March and going through May or June, it is important to be on the lookout for termites. These winged insects will swarm in the spring, and if you see a bunch of them flying out of a hole in the woodwork, it is likely termites. To ensure the problem is taken care of properly, it is best to call a licensed professional pest control company. Doing this will save you money and trouble in the long run.

Inspect the Roof

Winter storms can cause significant damage to roofs, so it is important to inspect your roof when spring arrives. You don't need to climb on the roof to do this; you can use binoculars, a camera, or a smartphone with a telephoto feature. Look for missing shingles, damaged or missing metal pipes, or anything that looks out of place. If you notice any issues that require closer inspection or repair, it is best to call a roofer.

Paint the Exterior

If you're planning to repaint your home's exterior this year, spring is an ideal time to get started. Choosing a color for your home can be daunting, but there are a few options to explore. You can take a walk around your town and snap pictures of house colors you like, browse photos on Houzz, or work with a color consultant to find the perfect hue. With a little bit of research, you can find the perfect color for your home.

Inspect Driveways and Paths

Freezing and thawing can cause a lot of damage to hardscaping materials such as concrete and asphalt. It is important to inspect your property regularly for any damage to walkways, paths, and driveways. If repairs are needed, asphalt can often be patched, but if the damage is more severe, concrete may need to be replaced entirely. Scheduling repairs as soon as possible is important to prevent further damage from occurring.

Check Sprinkler and Irrigation Systems

Checking your sprinklers or irrigation systems in the spring can save water – and save your plants. Sedinger shares these tips for checking your watering system:

• Run the system through all the zones manually and walk the property.
• Make sure none of the heads are broken or damaged.
• Adjust any heads that are spraying the house, especially windows, as this can cause moisture problems.
• Adjust heads that are spraying the street, sidewalk, or porches to avoid wasting water.
• If you don’t know how to maintain your sprinkler system, call a professional to do it. You’ll save money on your water bill and protect one of our most valuable natural resources.

Check Screen Doors and Windows

Screens are an essential part of keeping your home cool and comfortable during the summer months. Not only do they allow fresh air to flow in, but they also prevent bugs from entering your home. However, in order for screens to be effective, they must be free from any holes or tears. Before the warm weather arrives, it is important to inspect each screen and repair any damage, no matter how small.

Fortunately, screen repair kits can be found at many hardware and home improvement stores. With a little bit of effort, you can ensure that your screens are in top condition and ready for the summer.

Schedule Air-conditioning Service

Home maintenance is an important part of keeping your air conditioning system running efficiently. Many home inspectors see air conditioning systems that have not been adequately maintained, leading to shorter lifespans and less efficient cooling. To ensure your system runs optimally, it is important to change the filters at least once each season and to have a licensed professional service the equipment before the start of summer. Taking these steps can help extend the life of your air conditioning system and ensure it runs efficiently.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

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!

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