Real Estate Information

Embarking on the journey of purchasing your first home is a significant milestone that comes with a mix of excitement and apprehension. Albuquerque's real estate market presents unique opportunities and challenges for first-time home buyers. Here's an extended guide to help you navigate this important life decision with greater ease and understanding:

Deep Dive into Your Finances

A thorough assessment of your financial health is the first step in the home-buying process. Understand your credit score's impact on loan opportunities, calculate your debt-to-income ratio, and determine how much you can realistically afford for a down payment without compromising other financial goals.

Mortgage Pre-Approval

Securing pre-approval for a mortgage not only clarifies your budget but also strengthens your position in negotiations with sellers. It demonstrates your commitment and financial readiness to make such a significant purchase.

Comprehensive Market Research

Albuquerque boasts a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own character and price range. Investigate current market trends, average property values, and future development plans to find a community that aligns with your lifestyle preferences and financial constraints.

Account for All Ownership Costs

The purchase price is just the beginning. Factor in ongoing expenses such as property taxes, homeowners insurance, HOA fees if applicable, maintenance costs, and potential renovations or upgrades.

Enlist a Local Real Estate Expert

Partner with a real estate agent who specializes in the Albuquerque area. Their expertise will be invaluable in guiding you through listings, viewings, and the nuances of local real estate regulations. Sandi Pressley and her team have been helping people in Albuquerque find their first home for decades.

Prepare for Bidding Wars

With a competitive housing market, it's essential to be decisive and prepared to make strong offers. Discuss strategies with your agent to stand out among multiple bids without overextending your budget.

Rigorous Home Inspection

A comprehensive home inspection can reveal hidden issues that could lead to costly repairs down the line. Consider additional inspections for pests, radon, or structural integrity if suggested by the initial findings.

Strategic Negotiation

Work with your agent to understand the seller's motivations and craft an offer that addresses those while remaining within your budget. Be prepared to negotiate terms beyond price, such as closing dates or contingencies.

Evaluate Resale Potential

While it may be early to think about selling, understanding factors that affect resale value—such as location, school districts, and property condition—can ensure your investment remains sound over time.

Embrace Patience in Your Search

The right home might not appear immediately. Stay patient and avoid rushing into a decision that doesn't check most of your boxes or feels financially uncomfortable.

Explore Financing Options

Familiarize yourself with different types of mortgages and lenders available in Albuquerque. From conventional loans to government-backed options like FHA or VA loans, choose the one that best suits your needs.

Closing Process Understanding

Be aware of what the closing process entails—title searches, insurance policies, closing costs—and set aside funds for these final steps.

Homeownership Education

Take advantage of homeownership classes or workshops offered by local organizations. These resources can provide valuable insights into the buying process and long-term financial planning for homeownership.

By taking these extended tips into account, you'll be better equipped to approach the Albuquerque housing market with confidence and make well-informed decisions as you step into the realm of homeownership.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Beautiful 'Move in Ready' Home situated in the quaint community of Mountain Hawk! With 5 bedrooms/2.5 bathrooms, this home is ideal for large &/or extended families, hobbyist, etc! Featuring efficient floorplan with 2 living areas; easy care tile & Mohawk laminate flooring thru-out; gourmet kitchen w/granite countertops; upgraded cabinetry; pantry; overlooking dining & family room. Privately situated on main floor, the primary suite is a true retreat w/spa like en suite. Upper level boasts a spacious loft plus 4 more bedrooms & full bath w/dbl vanity. Low maint' front & back yards w/covered & open flagstone patio, weed barrier, decorative rock/mulch, privacy fence, raised garden beds, security side gate, shed & more. Close to local amenities with easy commute to Santa Fe or Albuquerque.

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 vibrant hues of spring adorn the city of Albuquerque, the community comes together to celebrate Easter with a variety of events that promise fun for all ages. From traditional egg hunts to festive brunches, Albuquerque offers a plethora of activities to make your Easter celebration memorable in 2024.

Egg Hunts and Family Fun

Mama's Minerals Easter Egg Hunt: On March 30th at 10 am, join the hunt for colorful treasures at Mama's Minerals. It's a perfect blend of fun and education, as children learn about gems and minerals while searching for eggs.

Balloon Fiesta Park Egg Hunt: This vast park becomes an Easter wonderland on March 29th, with thousands of eggs hidden throughout its grounds. The hunt starts at noon, offering a thrilling adventure for participants.

Faith Lutheran Church Family Egg Hunt: Faith Lutheran Church invites families to enjoy an egg hunt on March 30th at 11 am. It's a community-centered event that also features games and activities.

Easter Brunches and Buffets

Sheraton Uptown’s Easter Brunch Buffet: On March 31st, indulge in an array of culinary delights at Sheraton Uptown’s lavish buffet. The event also includes an egg hunt for the little ones.

Easter Sunday Pancake Breakfast: Start your Easter Sunday with a hearty pancake breakfast at various locations across the city.

Community Gatherings

Good Friday Service at Healing Waters Ministry: Commemorate Good Friday on March 29th with a service that reflects on the meaning of sacrifice and redemption.

Easter Gathering at San Mateo Blvd NE: Join the gathering on March 30th for a day filled with spiritual upliftment and fellowship.

Have a Happy Easter!

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Impeccable custom T&R built home, in wondrous gated community inBosque Encantada..Upon entering you will be in awe of the customcraftsmanship, from elegant inlaid tile entry, hand crafted fireplace, and ofcourse an incredible cooks kitchen, ss appliances, 2 hi end dishwashers, and anamazing pantry that is accessible from the garage (into the kitchen) .This homehas a custom built green house and workshop attached, fitness room.Masterdown with incredible shower separate closets, with a safe room (forsecurity),Upstairs are additional bedrooms (with their own bathrooms), andbalcony with impressive views of the mountains and surrounding communityLets make new memories, in your exciting new home.

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!

In Albuquerque the security of your home remains a paramount concern. To ensure that your sanctuary remains inviolable, a comprehensive approach to home security is essential. Here's an expanded guide to making your Albuquerque home a bastion of safety:

Advanced Lock Systems: Begin by assessing all entry points into your home. Replace standard locks with high-grade, ANSI-rated deadbolts. For tech-savvy homeowners, smart locks offer convenience and control, allowing you to manage access through your smartphone and receive alerts for unauthorized attempts.

Window Reinforcements: Windows are often the weakest link in home security. Upgrade them with impact-resistant glass or apply security film to make them shatterproof. Window bars can be a visual deterrent, but for a less intrusive option, consider robust locks and vibration sensors that alert you to any tampering.

Perimeter Lighting: A well-lit exterior is a simple yet effective deterrent against intruders. Install motion-sensor floodlights that illuminate dark corners and pathways, making it challenging for anyone to approach unnoticed.

Comprehensive Alarm Systems: Modern alarm systems offer more than just loud sirens; they connect directly to monitoring centers that can dispatch law enforcement swiftly. With features like door/window sensors, glass break detectors, and panic buttons, these systems provide a robust defense against break-ins.

Strategic Surveillance: Closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras serve as both a deterrent and a means of evidence collection. Position cameras to oversee all access points and common areas, ensuring that there are no blind spots on your property.

Community Vigilance: Engage with your local community through neighborhood watch programs. These initiatives promote cooperation and communication among residents to report suspicious behavior promptly.

Perimeter Defenses: A secure fence can serve as the first line of defense for your property. Complement this with well-maintained landscaping; keep trees and shrubs trimmed to eliminate potential hiding places for would-be burglars.

Security Best Practices: Cultivate habits that bolster your home's defenses. Always lock doors and windows before leaving, even if it's just for a quick errand. Be discreet about your absence on social media and arrange for mail collection to avoid signs of an empty house.

Secure Valuables: Invest in a high-quality safe for storing valuables and important documents. Choose a safe that is fire-resistant, waterproof, and anchored securely to your home's structure.

Regular Maintenance: Ensure that all security devices are in working order through regular maintenance checks. Replace batteries in sensors, test alarm systems monthly, and keep an eye on the health of your surveillance equipment.

By embracing these practices and investing in quality security measures, you can transform your Albuquerque home into a fortress of tranquility.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Impeccable custom T&R built home, in wondrous gated community inBosque Encantada..Upon entering you will be in awe of the customcraftsmanship, from elegant inlaid tile entry, hand crafted fireplace, and ofcourse an incredible cooks kitchen, ss appliances, 2 hi end dishwashers, and anamazing pantry that is accessible from the garage (into the kitchen) .This homehas a custom built green house and workshop attached, fitness room.Masterdown with incredible shower separate closets, with a safe room (forsecurity),Upstairs are additional bedrooms (with their own bathrooms), andbalcony with impressive views of the mountains and surrounding communityLets make new memories, in your exciting new home.

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!

Being underwater on your mortgage for your Albuquerque home, where the balance you owe is greater than the value of your home, can feel like a daunting and isolating experience. However, it's important to remember that you have options and there are strategies you can employ to navigate this challenging financial situation.

Refinance Your Mortgage

Refinancing could be a viable option if you're eligible. This process involves taking out a new mortgage with better terms, which could lead to lower interest rates and monthly payments. It's essential to consider closing costs and how long you plan to stay in your home before deciding if refinancing is right for you.

Loan Modification

A loan modification is a negotiation process with your lender where you can discuss altering the terms of your loan. This might include extending the duration of your mortgage, reducing the interest rate, or even forgiving a portion of the principal. Each lender has different policies and programs for modification, so direct communication is key.

Short Sale

In a short sale, you sell your Albuquerque home for less than the outstanding mortgage balance with the consent of your lender. This can be a complex process that requires approval from all parties involved, including potential buyers and any secondary lenders if you have more than one loan on the property.

Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure

Offering a deed in lieu of foreclosure means voluntarily transferring ownership of your property to the lender as an alternative to foreclosure. While this can relieve you from the mortgage debt, it's important to understand that it may have tax consequences and impact your credit score.

Seek Legal Advice

Consulting with a real estate attorney or financial advisor can provide valuable insights into your situation. They can help you understand the legal implications of each option and guide you towards making an informed decision.

Government Programs

Investigate government programs designed to assist homeowners in distress. Programs like HARP (Home Affordable Refinance Program) or HAMP (Home Affordable Modification Program) may offer solutions if you meet their eligibility criteria.

Budgeting and Financial Planning

Take a close look at your finances and consider creating a budget that accounts for your reduced home value. Financial planning might also involve prioritizing expenses, cutting non-essential costs, and exploring additional income streams.

Remember, being proactive is crucial when dealing with an underwater mortgage. Explore every avenue, communicate openly with your lender, and seek professional advice to find the best path forward.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Incredible 3BDR/2BA home with so many upgrades built by Abrazo Homes! Gorgeous upgraded tile flooring throughout the main living, kitchen, baths, hall & utility rooms! Luxury kitchen pkg w/upgraded raised panel cabinetry & crown molding, new microwave & dishwasher (2023), gas stove, pantry, recessed lighting! Primary suite features new shower (approx 1yr), raised dual sink vanity, garden tub, large walk-in closet w/extra shelving. Secondary bdrs w/walk-in closets! Cabinets & counter in utility room! Navien tankless water heater! Recirculating Pump! Anderson windows! Front storm door! Insulated garage & garage door w/workbench & extra outlets! Expanded covered & open patio for entertaining! Great location, close to parks, schools, shopping, Cottonwood Mall!

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!

Albuquerque, a city known for its unique blend of Spanish, Native American, and Anglo cultures, truly comes to life in the spring. As the chill of winter dissipates, the city's natural beauty and cultural vibrancy take center stage, offering an array of activities for locals and visitors alike. Here are some ways you can take advantage of Spring in Albuquerque.

Outdoor Adventures

Hiking the Sandia Mountains: The Sandia Mountains offer a diverse range of trails that cater to all levels of hikers. From the gentle paths at the base to the challenging La Luz Trail leading to the peak, there's an adventure waiting at every turn.

Hot Air Balloon Rides: Albuquerque is world-renowned for its hot air ballooning. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta may be in fall, but spring offers clear skies and favorable winds for those looking to float above the city's enchanting landscape.

Sandia Peak Tramway: Take a ride on the tramway for breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding natural beauty. Spring is an ideal time to hike the trails at the top.

Rio Grande Nature Center State Park: Ideal for bird watchers and nature lovers, the park offers guided walks and educational talks during spring.

Biking Along the Paseo del Bosque Trail: This 16-mile trail offers stunning views and a flat path, perfect for a leisurely bike ride.

Cultural Experiences

Albuquerque Museum: This spring, the museum features an extensive collection of Southwestern art, as well as exhibits on the area's fascinating history from the Native American and Spanish colonial eras.

Old Town Stroll: Albuquerque's Old Town is a living museum. With buildings dating back to the 1700s, it's a place where history is preserved and shared through tours, shops, and restaurants.

Festivals and Events

Gathering of Nations: This event is not just a powwow; it's a gathering of over 700 tribes from across North America celebrating their traditions through music, dance, and crafts. This year it takes place from April 25-27, 2024.

New Mexico Wine Festival: Sample wines from across New Mexico's wine country. The festival also offers live music, food pairings, and wine education sessions. The event takes place from May 25 - 27, 2024.

Culinary Delights

Seasonal Cuisine: Albuquerque's culinary scene embraces spring with open arms. Restaurants feature dishes made with ingredients like blue corn and chile that are staples of New Mexican cuisine.

Farmers Markets: The markets are more than just a place to buy food; they're community hubs where you can meet local farmers, try new foods, and participate in cooking demonstrations.

Nature and Wildlife

Rio Grande Nature Center State Park: A haven for nature lovers, this park offers trails along the Rio Grande, birdwatching opportunities, and educational programs about the local ecosystem.

ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden: Explore over 36 acres of gardens showcasing native plants and flowers that bloom beautifully in spring.

Spring in Albuquerque offers endless opportunities to engage with nature, immerse yourself in culture, savor delicious food, and celebrate life. It's a time when the city not only thaws out but also throws open its doors in a warm welcome to all.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Incredible 3BDR/2BA home with so many upgrades built by Abrazo Homes! Gorgeous upgraded tile flooring throughout the main living, kitchen, baths, hall & utility rooms! Luxury kitchen pkg w/upgraded raised panel cabinetry & crown molding, new microwave & dishwasher (2023), gas stove, pantry, recessed lighting! Primary suite features new shower (approx 1yr), raised dual sink vanity, garden tub, large walk-in closet w/extra shelving. Secondary bdrs w/walk-in closets! Cabinets & counter in utility room! Navien tankless water heater! Recirculating Pump! Anderson windows! Front storm door! Insulated garage & garage door w/workbench & extra outlets! Expanded covered & open patio for entertaining! Great location, close to parks, schools, shopping, Cottonwood Mall!

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!

Buying a home in Albuquerque is a big decision, especially if it's your first time. There are many factors to consider, such as location, budget, financing, inspection, and negotiation. If you're looking for some tips to help you navigate the process of buying your first home in Albuquerque, you've come to the right place. Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind as you embark on this exciting journey.

1. Do your research.

Before you start looking for homes, you should have a clear idea of what you want and what you can afford. You can use online tools to search for homes that match your criteria, such as size, style, features, and price range. You can also browse through local listings and compare different neighborhoods and communities. You should also research the market trends and the average home prices in Albuquerque to get a sense of what to expect.

2. Get pre-approved.

One of the first steps to buying a home is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. This means that a lender will check your credit history, income, assets, and debts and determine how much they are willing to lend you. Getting pre-approved will help you narrow down your options and show sellers that you are serious and ready to buy. It will also give you an edge over other buyers who may not have this advantage.

3. Hire a real estate agent. B

uying a home can be overwhelming and complicated, especially if you're new to the process. That's why it's advisable to hire a professional real estate agent who can guide you through every step and represent your best interests. A good agent will help you find the right home for your needs, negotiate the best deal, handle the paperwork, and resolve any issues that may arise along the way. Sandi Pressley and her team have been helping people find thier ideal home for decades and can do the same for you.

4. Make a smart offer.

Once you find the home of your dreams, you'll need to make an offer that reflects its value and your budget. Your agent will help you determine a fair and competitive offer based on the market conditions, the condition of the home, and the seller's motivation. You'll also need to decide on other terms and contingencies, such as closing date, earnest money deposit, inspection period, and appraisal contingency. Your offer should be clear, concise, and attractive to the seller.

5. Have the home inspected.

After your offer is accepted, you'll need to have the home inspected by a qualified professional. A home inspection is a thorough examination of the physical structure and systems of the home, such as plumbing, electrical, heating, cooling, roofing, foundation, and more. The inspector will identify any defects or issues that may affect the safety or value of the home. You'll receive a detailed report with photos and recommendations for repairs or improvements. You can use this report to negotiate with the seller or back out of the deal if there are major problems.

6. Close the deal.

The final step to buying your first home in Albuquerque is closing the deal. This is when you sign all the necessary documents, pay the closing costs, and get the keys to your new home. The closing process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks depending on various factors. You'll need to work closely with your agent, lender, title company, and escrow company to ensure everything goes smoothly and on time.

Congratulations! You've just bought your first home in Albuquerque! Now it's time to celebrate and enjoy your new place.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Save time & money over new construction on this turn-key, less than 2 year old home! Like-new kitchen w/sparkling white quartz counters, tile backsplash, stainless appliances & on-trend light gray cabinets w/crystal glass pulls. Wood-look plank tile in kitchen & baths, carpet in living & bedrooms. Living/dining/kitchen combo for open-floorpan comfort. Big walled backyard ready for your creative vision. Landscaped front yard with drip system for low-maintenance yard care. Light & bright primary suite with double sinks, big shower, and huge walk-in closet. 2 spacious spare bedrooms, full spare bath, and two car garage. Smart home alarm system, refrigerated air and low-e windows for energy efficiency and the utmost comfort; even on the coldest winter nights & the hottest summer afternoons.

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!

Color is a powerful tool that can affect our mood, energy and well-being. Different colors can evoke different emotions and feelings, such as happiness, calmness, excitement or sadness. In this blog post, we will explore how to use color to boost emotion and well-being in your Albuquerque home.

First, let's look at some general guidelines for choosing colors for your home. According to color psychology, warm colors such as red, orange and yellow are stimulating and energizing, while cool colors such as blue, green and purple are soothing and relaxing. However, this does not mean that you should paint your entire home in one color scheme. Instead, you should consider the function and purpose of each room and choose colors that match the desired mood and atmosphere.

For example, if you want to create a cozy and inviting living room, you might opt for warm colors such as beige, brown or burgundy. These colors can make the space feel more comfortable and welcoming, as well as stimulate conversation and social interaction. On the other hand, if you want to create a serene and peaceful bedroom, you might choose cool colors such as lavender, blue or gray. These colors can help you relax and unwind, as well as promote restful sleep and reduce stress.

Another factor to consider when choosing colors for your home is the amount of natural light that enters the space. Natural light can enhance or diminish the effect of colors, depending on the time of day and the direction of the windows. For example, if your room faces east or west, it will receive more sunlight in the morning or evening, respectively. This means that warm colors will appear brighter and more vibrant, while cool colors will appear duller and darker. Conversely, if your room faces north or south, it will receive more consistent light throughout the day. This means that warm colors will appear softer and more muted, while cool colors will appear clearer and more vivid.

Therefore, you should choose colors that complement the natural light in your room, rather than clash with it. For example, if your room receives a lot of sunlight in the morning, you might want to avoid bright yellow or orange walls, as they might be too overwhelming and intense. Instead, you might opt for a softer shade of yellow or peach, or a neutral color such as white or cream. Similarly, if your room receives little natural light, you might want to avoid dark blue or purple walls, as they might make the space feel cold and gloomy. Instead, you might choose a lighter shade of blue or lavender, or a warm color such as pink or coral.

Finally, you should also consider your personal preferences and tastes when choosing colors for your home. After all, you are the one who will live in it and enjoy it every day. Therefore, you should choose colors that make you happy and reflect your personality and style. You can also experiment with different combinations of colors and see how they affect your mood and well-being. You can use color swatches, paint samples or online tools to visualize how different colors would look in your home.

Color is a wonderful way to express yourself and create a beautiful and comfortable environment in your home. By following these tips on how to use color to boost emotion and well-being in your Albuquerque home, you can transform your space into a place that inspires you and makes you feel good.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Save time & money over new construction on this turn-key, less than 2 year old home! Like-new kitchen w/sparkling white quartz counters, tile backsplash, stainless appliances & on-trend light gray cabinets w/crystal glass pulls. Wood-look plank tile in kitchen & baths, carpet in living & bedrooms. Living/dining/kitchen combo for open-floorpan comfort. Big walled backyard ready for your creative vision. Landscaped front yard with drip system for low-maintenance yard care. Light & bright primary suite with double sinks, big shower, and huge walk-in closet. 2 spacious spare bedrooms, full spare bath, and two car garage. Smart home alarm system, refrigerated air and low-e windows for energy efficiency and the utmost comfort; even on the coldest winter nights & the hottest summer afternoons.

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!

Just listed! Whether you desire a first home in Albuquerque or a roomier upgrade, these listings have it all. Both boast stunning views, prime locations, and abundant amenities. And both homes are less than 3 years old, meaning you get an almost new home as well without the worries that can come with older homes. Take a closer look now before they sell during this busy Spring Albuquerque real estate season!

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

Save time & money over new construction on this turn-key, less than 2 year old home! Like-new kitchen w/sparkling white quartz counters, tile backsplash, stainless appliances & on-trend light gray cabinets w/crystal glass pulls. Wood-look plank tile in kitchen & baths, carpet in living & bedrooms. Living/dining/kitchen combo for open-floorpan comfort. Big walled backyard ready for your creative vision. Landscaped front yard with drip system for low-maintenance yard care. Light & bright primary suite with double sinks, big shower, and huge walk-in closet. 2 spacious spare bedrooms, full spare bath, and two car garage. Smart home alarm system, refrigerated air and low-e windows for energy efficiency and the utmost comfort; even on the coldest winter nights & the hottest summer afternoons.

Learn More!

1056 Contabella Lane, Bernalillo, NM 87004

Gorgeous home nestled in the gated community of Portella Bellisimo on large, approximately .33 acre lot. Seller spent approximately 45K in upgrades! This 3 year young, very gently lived in gem features an open & bright floorplan with 4 spacious bedrooms all with walk in closets, of which includes 2 primary suites, ideal for in-laws, guests, etc.; PLUS a study/office. Raised ceilings; high end 20'' porcelain tile flooring; double sliding doors w/sidelight panels; high end lighting; tankless water heater; & more! Fine appointments grace the Chef's kitchen including beautiful quartz countertops & glass tile backsplash; high end SS appliances; walk-in pantry; & eat at bar that opens to adjacent dining & great room.

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.

When remodeling your kitchen in Albuquerque, the new cabinetry will likely be one of the most costly expenses.

Kitchen cabinets represent a significant part of a renovation, typically making up around 40% of the total budget. Two major factors influencing the cost of cabinets are their quality and construction.

Though cabinets are a long-term investment, how can you still save money when purchasing these essential fixtures?

Do Your Research

The first step to saving money on kitchen cabinets is to do your research and determine which features and construction elements are essential versus those you can live without.

For example, start by learning about the materials used to make cabinets. Particleboard is inexpensive but fragile, and does not hold up well to moisture, while more durable options like plywood may cost more upfront but last longer.

Medium-density fiberboard is often preferred because it strikes a balance between cost and performance. Compared to solid wood, it actually performs better. Medium-density fiberboard is very water-resistant and can easily withstand changes in humidity and temperature.

Though solid wood cabinets are beautiful, their high cost and sensitivity to environmental conditions make them impractical for some kitchens. For instance, fluctuations in temperature and moisture can ruin solid wood cabinets if not properly regulated.

Get Custom Doors and Pre-Made Boxes

Custom cabinet doors and inexpensive premade cabinet boxes offer a creative solution to get the high-end look of custom cabinets on a budget. By pairing custom doors with affordable cabinet boxes from IKEA or Home Depot, you can achieve the outward appearance of high-end custom cabinets for a fraction of the cost.

Premade cabinet doors can also be dressed up with unique hardware to feel more custom without the price tag. This flexible approach allows you to customize your cabinet look according to your style and budget.

Factory-made cabinets and less expensive pre-made options usually have built-in rails and are constructed from either particleboard with a veneer or medium-density fiberboard. When selecting cabinets, limit unnecessary extras like spice racks and pullouts, as too many custom additions or in-stock options with accessories can increase costs.

Get Unfinished Cabinets

If you choose unfinished cabinets, you will save money upfront, but you will still need to paint or stain them yourself later. Staining may be a DIY project, but painting likely requires hiring a professional. Calculate the cost of finishing to determine if the upfront savings are worth the extra work.

Use Open Shelving

If you want new cabinets but have a limited budget, consider open shelving instead of upper cabinets. This trendy look can save thousands of dollars yet still appears stylish and clean. Going without upper cabinets allows you to splurge on other kitchen upgrades while sticking to your budget.

Open shelving is not only more affordable but also keeps your kitchen feeling brighter and more spacious. This open design is especially effective in smaller, enclosed kitchens where too many upper cabinets can create a cramped ambiance.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

1056 Contabella Lane, Bernalillo, NM 87004

Gorgeous home nestled in the gated community of Portella Bellisimo on large, approximately .33 acre lot. Seller spent approximately 45K in upgrades! This 3 year young, very gently lived in gem features an open & bright floorplan with 4 spacious bedrooms all with walk in closets, of which includes 2 primary suites, ideal for in-laws, guests, etc.; PLUS a study/office. Raised ceilings; high end 20'' porcelain tile flooring; double sliding doors w/sidelight panels; high end lighting; tankless water heater; & more! Fine appointments grace the Chef's kitchen including beautiful quartz countertops & glass tile backsplash; high end SS appliances; walk-in pantry; & eat at bar that opens to adjacent dining & great room.

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!

Bringing a pet into your Albuquerque home is a big decision that requires thoughtful preparation. While pets can bring great joy, they may damage carpets, furniture, and upholstery during training. However, with some knowledge and planning, you can welcome a pet while keeping your home intact. Invest in this new family member by learning how to balance their needs and your belongings.

House training

The most critical way to protect your home is by properly training your pet. While time-consuming, training is vital for household harmony. If you lack the time, consider hiring a professional trainer. Housebreak pets early to prevent carpet stains. Accidents happen, but pet carpet cleaners can quickly remove stains and odors.

Pets that are happy and content are also less inclined to eliminate where they shouldn't. If your pet is normally well-behaved but has begun soiling areas inside the home or outside the litter box, this change in behavior may indicate stress or illness. Examine if there have been any alterations to your pet's routine or other symptoms of poor health. Consulting a veterinarian can help address abnormal behaviors like inappropriate elimination.

Cat scratch fever

When adopting a cat, it's important to understand their natural instinct to scratch surfaces in order to maintain their claws. While some cats are declawed to prevent damage, many animal welfare groups consider this practice inhumane. The most humane and effective approach is providing scratching posts, mats, or other approved surfaces that allow cats to satisfy their scratching needs. Observing your new cat's preferences will allow you to provide the scratching tools they like best, protecting your home furnishings while keeping your cat healthy and content.

To stop your cat from scratching furniture, reward them when they scratch appropriate surfaces. Scolding after the fact is ineffective, so monitor your cat closely until they reliably scratch only where allowed. Cats prefer rough, challenging surfaces that keep their claws healthy, not soft ones they can easily shred.

Dog destruction

Just like cats need to scratch, many dogs have a strong instinct to chew, dig, or otherwise destroy things. Keep your dog satisfied and your home (and shoes!) undamaged by always having plenty of dog toys available. Many chew toys are built to withstand serious chewing and will last a while. Be sure to replace them as your dog ruins them, or your dog may start chewing on other objects instead.

Another very effective way to protect your home is to keep your dog well-exercised. Depending on the breed, some dogs, particularly those with high energy levels or high intelligence, need mental and physical stimulation to prevent destructive behavior. Regularly exercise your dog as much as possible. With luck, a tired, content dog will have less desire to release pent-up energy on your home. Importantly, research breed traits before adopting. If you have limited time for exercise, consider breeds compatible with your lifestyle. Some dogs need more activity or space and may act out if their needs aren't met. Know your dog's requirements to ensure a happy home for both of you.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

12101 San Antonio Drive NE, Albuquerque, NM 87122

Welcome to your oasis in the heart of North Albuquerque Acres! This custom Helmick home has been recently updated to become sheer perfection. Greeted with gorgeous Sandstone floors, the foyer opens to a great room with soaring custom chandelier and oversized kiva fireplace. Hand-carved vigas, beams w/ corbels, plaster walls, and high-end quartz counters are just some of the endless amenities in this Pueblo-style home. The chef's kitchen has been recently updated with quartz and new finishes. Enjoy the dual-pantries, oversized island and gas cooktop along with a double-oven. ALL bathrooms have been renovated, including the spa-like primary bath with GORGEOUS marble shower and soaking tub. Featuring 5 bedrooms, ALL downstairs, plus an exercise room, there is room for everyone.

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!