Real Estate Information Archive

The process of building a new home in Albuquerque can be stressful if you don't plan carefully. Choosing the right layout will depend on your family's needs, as well as your choice of finishes. Custom electronics are also important to consider. Last but not least, your security should be a top priority.

Keep It Simple

You may not be interested in minimalist design, even though simple living is all the rage. However, for busy adults, it is important to design their homes to make life easier.

Are you a fan of outdoor activities, such as lawn-mowing and gardening? Make sure the entrance you'll use the most after these activities is easy to access and that you have a place to dump your muddy shoes. You should ensure that the first stop in from the garage or bus has a sturdy and easy-to-clean floor if you have young children.

Focus on Flow

As soon as you step into your very own home, you'll likely start shedding things. It may be a briefcase or work boots. You'll also want to de-stress as you move into your home.

You may want to design a closet with cubbies and a charging station for electronics. Make sure you have a place for the controllers of your custom home sound or lighting system.

For those who like to entertain, it's critical to have plenty of kitchen space for people to gather. An open floor plan is a wonderful way to invite guests into the heart of your home. Plan for an island or a peninsula if you'd like your guests to gather in this crucial workspace.

A Word on Security

These days, security cameras aren't just for your front door. It is crucial to ensure the interior of your home is secure and safe when you're away from home for long periods of time, or if your children will be home alone before you come home from work. It will be necessary to plan for these tools before the walls are erected.

Natural Light for a Healthy Brain

The placement of windows and skylights can go a long way to making your home both happy and healthy. Natural light is critical to good brain health and quality sleep.

You may want to consider installing frosted or textured windows if nearby houses are too close. Additionally, skylights that allow air to circulate are excellent for bringing in fresh air and sunlight.

Not a morning person? Plan your sleeping space away from the rising sun, or avoid a lot of east facing windows. You can enjoy plenty of light with south-facing windows and still sleep in!

Build In Some Decadence

We all deserve a little pampering every now and then. As with keeping things easy, it's different for every one of us. In the laundry room, if you want surround sound, plan it when the walls are open. Now is the time to treat yourself to a giant tub if you've always wanted one.

This should spill over into your yard. If your spouse enjoys grilling, you might want to construct a deck that has plenty of space as well as wiring for a smoker or pellet grill. While few of us will be able to get everything we've ever wanted in our homes, with proper planning, you may be able to get one feature you've always wanted.

Designing a home is fun, but puts a lot of responsibility on the buyer. Work with a designer or architect that is willing to put in the time discussing the things you need and the items you really want.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

10 PINON RIDGE Drive, Placitas, NM 87043

Amazing Hilltop Lot is setting for this Custom Santa Fe style home. Incredible mountain and sunset views. Bright light and open great room floor plan, gorgeous quality windows, with beautiful Saltillo tile floors throughout. High ceilings throughout accented with wood beams and tongue and groove. Dream kitchen with beautiful granite countertops custom cabinets and 2 huge walk-in pantries, kitchen island, & bright sunny breakfast nook. Water is stored in a 1200 gallon tank and is on a water fill system. Water delivered to fill tank by East Mountain water for $150 a month. Exquisite owner suite privately situated from other bedrooms w/Kiva style fireplace and Vigas accents on the high ceilings. Amazing custom shower with glass block accents and cedar lined his and her walk-in closets.

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.

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

62 Calle Monte Aplanado NWAlbuquerque, NM 87120

If you're thinking of purchasing a home in Albuquerque, you have one big decision to make as you start your search. You have to choose whether to buy an existing property or a new one. In the decision-making process, you have to weigh the pros and cons of each.

In the past, buying a new house was almost always more expensive than buying an older one. The cost of building materials is lower now than in the past, so price isn't necessarily a determining factor, or at least not the primary factor for most people.

What Are the Upsides of Buying an Older House?

Some of the benefits of buying an existing, older home might include:

• Higher quality construction: This is not to say that new homes cannot be well built, but older homes often have a higher level of attention to detail that is harder to find in something newer. The craftsmanship used in the building of these homes was often a point of pride for the people who worked on them and lived in them.
• Bigger yards: Land used to be cheaper in the past, so older homes will have larger yards.
• Character: An older home may appeal to you because of its charm and character.
• Established Neighborhoods: There are fewer trees in newly developed neighborhoods, and they go through some growing pains. With towering trees and mature shrubbery, an established neighborhood may be more beautiful.
• More walkability: You're likely to find that older neighborhoods are more walkable, and they tend to be closer to city centers, as opposed to newer houses which generally sprawl farther and farther away from cities.

What About the Downsides of an Older Home?

Buying an older home isn’t all about the dreamy craftsmanship and charm. There are certain negative aspects to consider. Here are some examples:

• Smaller spaces: Older homes tend to have more rooms and are less likely to have an open-concept layout. Older homes will have smaller spaces than what we see today. Some homes have smaller garages and closets, and it may be difficult to remedy this problem.
• Maintenance: With older construction, it's hard to find a low-maintenance home. You may discover tree roots interrupting your sewer line or a foundation problem.
• Updates: An older home may need to be updated in addition to regular maintenance. In order to make the home truly functional for your needs, you might have to remodel the kitchen or the bathrooms.

What Are the Pros and Cons of New Construction?

You're likely not going to have to worry about any maintenance with new construction, as well as the fact that these homes have modern features that make life easier. Typical features of a new construction home include a built-in dishwasher, wired for electronics, and even wine coolers.

There is even a builder's warranty on some new construction homes. You can save money on heating and cooling by buying a newer, energy-efficient home.

The construction of a new home will adhere to current building codes, and when a new home is bought, it feels like yours immediately, rather than carrying the emotional baggage of people who have lived there before.

Finally, new construction can have the downside of lacking warmth, charm, or uniqueness. When you buy in a neighborhood with tract homes, every house will look similar.

It is likely you'll see a lot of dirt during construction as there are not many mature trees or yards in these neighborhoods.

Because newer neighborhoods are not close to downtown Albuquerque, your commute time may be longer. Also, new homes settle, so you may notice cracks in your walls and door frames.

There are clearly pros and cons to both options, and you must choose the home that works for you. People have a tendency to think they want one thing and then realize when they start searching that it isn't right for them. For example, you might think you want a charming older home, but as you begin your search and you start calculating the cost of upkeep, you realize you’re not ready for that. In short, do your research and relay on the expert help of the Realtors at The Sandi Pressley Team.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

1688 CERRO VISTA Loop NW, Los Lunas, NM 87031

Incredible Sivage Thomas one story 3BDR/2BA home! Original owner, beautifully maintained and updated!! Master bdr split floor plan. Huge lot with BACKYARD ACCESS & RV PAD! Seller updates include roof, furnace, water heater, patio sliding door & most windows, flooring, & garage door! Light, bright & open great room with gas fireplace & formal dining room! Kitchen features Silestone countertops, gas stove & bkfst nook. Master suite on its own wing featuring a tray ceiling, remodeled bath with large shower, furniture style cabinetry, soft close drawers, quartz countertops, tile floor, walk-in closet w/custom shelving. Huge covered patio with lots of room to entertain family & friends! 2car finished garage, extra concrete pad, large storage shed, extended drive-thru for RV & double gate.

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.

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Whether you're looking for the perfect first home, or ready to step up to a luxury setting, we have you covered with these two new HOT Albuquerque homes. But don't wait, as these fine listings are sure to go fast!

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

1688 CERRO VISTA Loop NW, Los Lunas, NM 87031

Incredible Sivage Thomas one story 3BDR/2BA home! Original owner, beautifully maintained and updated!! Master bdr split floor plan. Huge lot with BACKYARD ACCESS & RV PAD! Seller updates include roof, furnace, water heater, patio sliding door & most windows, flooring, & garage door! Light, bright & open great room with gas fireplace & formal dining room! Kitchen features Silestone countertops, gas stove & bkfst nook. Master suite on its own wing featuring a tray ceiling, remodeled bath with large shower, furniture style cabinetry, soft close drawers, quartz countertops, tile floor, walk-in closet w/custom shelving. Huge covered patio with lots of room to entertain family & friends! 2car finished garage, extra concrete pad, large storage shed, extended drive-thru for RV & double gate.

Learn More!

10 PINON RIDGE Drive, Placitas, NM 87043

Amazing Hilltop Lot is setting for this Custom Santa Fe style home. Incredible mountain and sunset views. Bright light and open great room floor plan, gorgeous quality windows, with beautiful Saltillo tile floors throughout. High ceilings throughout accented with wood beams and tongue and groove. Dream kitchen with beautiful granite countertops custom cabinets and 2 huge walk-in pantries, kitchen island, & bright sunny breakfast nook. Water is stored in a 1200 gallon tank and is on a water fill system. Water delivered to fill tank by East Mountain water for $150 a month. Exquisite owner suite privately situated from other bedrooms w/Kiva style fireplace and Vigas accents on the high ceilings. Amazing custom shower with glass block accents and cedar lined his and her walk-in closets.

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.

Do you plan to move to a new home in Albuquerque soon? New environments are exciting, especially if it is your first home. It's intimidating to search for and purchase a home, but the challenge doesn't end there. 

You must move your belongings and family to this new compound, an undertaking that is quite demanding. If you've ever done it before, you know that the stress lasts for several months after you've started planning. Besides the time and energy it takes, you'll also need enough money to ensure that everything goes smoothly.

You should create a budget based on your needs and what you can afford in order to avoid spending aimlessly. We'll discuss a few of the main factors affecting the cost of your move in this article.

Volume

When moving, the volume of your goods will have a huge effect on your moving expenses. It can have a big impact on the size of the truck used by your local mover and the number of extra workers you may need. 

It also matters what kind of items you're transporting. Due to the care required, fragile goods, for example, tend to cost more. Packing materials will be costly. Additionally, most moving companies require their clients to pay for extra insurance just in case anything goes wrong. 

Your belongings can be sorted out to reduce these expenses. Get rid of anything you are no longer using and sell those that still have some value, such as electronics and books. This won’t only cut the volume but also the weight of the goods, which will have a ripple effect on the transportation costs.

Distance

What is the distance between your current location and the new home? When calculating the total expected expenses, it is important to keep this factor in mind. Moving across longer distances requires more funds because, for one thing, the moving company's fees are higher. Additionally, there might be other costs involved, especially if you're crossing state lines. 

Timing

The time of the month when you decide to move may also affect the moving costs. Many people are unaware of this. Picking a more favorable date could result in significant savings. During the last week of the month, most movers are busy, so their prices are higher.

However, you can make use of the low-demand dates between the 5th and 24th of every month. Some companies go the extra mile and offer discounts during this time. Keep in mind, however, that this does not apply to every mover. Do your research and find the moving company that best suits your needs.

In addition to the dates, the season may also affect your moving costs. Summer is a good time to move. But that also means that many people are likely to move during these months, and that gives the movers a reason to raise their prices. It would be wise to postpone this project during other seasons if these costs are a serious deterrent to you.

Extra Costs

A mover's fees for shipping your goods are just part of what you should expect to pay. You need to budget for packaging materials, package labeling tools, and snacks for the day. You should consider paying someone to assist you in packing and unpacking if you have a lot of items to pack. You can reduce these costs if you ask your family for help.

It is exciting and challenging to move to a new home. It can be tedious to pack, sort, and ensure that everything is in the right place. It's recommended to reserve enough money for your moving day so you don't have to worry about financial calculations on your moving day. It's important to consider the volume of goods, the distance to the new home, and the time of year when calculating moving costs. Include all these aspects in your calculations. Of course, you can call the mover in advance and ask them to help you with the estimates.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

6538 DESERT SPIRIT Road NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114

Welcome home to the in-demand Anasazi Ridge neighborhood! This charmer features NEW carpet and an open floorplan. Gas range in the kitchen with a spot for bar-height seating makes this inviting for everyone! The large master bedroom features an oversized walk-in closet and an en suite with both a soaking tub and separate shower. Enjoy the 10' ceilings, beautiful oversized tile floors, and cultured stone exterior accents. This low-maintenance gem features a covered patio with pull-down shades for your outdoor enjoyment. Convenient location makes this one move-in ready!

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.

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Are you in the market for your first home, or looking to upgrade? These latest listings are just what you've been waiting for! But don't wait too long, as they's sure to sell fast in this hot Albuquerque real estate market!

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

6538 DESERT SPIRIT Road NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114

Welcome home to the in-demand Anasazi Ridge neighborhood! This charmer features NEW carpet and an open floorplan. Gas range in the kitchen with a spot for bar-height seating makes this inviting for everyone! The large master bedroom features an oversized walk-in closet and an en suite with both a soaking tub and separate shower. Enjoy the 10' ceilings, beautiful oversized tile floors, and cultured stone exterior accents. This low-maintenance gem features a covered patio with pull-down shades for your outdoor enjoyment. Convenient location makes this one move-in ready!

Learn More!

1344 GRANDE Boulevard SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124 

Private end unit 3BDR/2BA in this 55+ adult community in the heart of Rio Rancho! Beautiful front and back patios to enjoy morning coffee and relax in the evenings. Refrigerated air! Updated water heater! Security bars at windows! Lots of natural light! Kitchen features sunny window to the front patio, white cabs, pantry, ceiling fan, refrig, washer, dryer stay! Master bedroom with its own bath. Huge open living & dining room with back patio access for entertaining. Two secondary bedrooms and full bath are perfect for guests or office/study space. Back patio has storage closet. Clubhouse and community pool! Great location with easy access to shopping, parks, restaurants and transportation!

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.

Owning a home in Albuquerque can give you and your family financial freedom. By paying a mortgage, you are purchasing a permanent asset. Making renovations and repairs will allow you to make the space your own. However, the cost of household repairs can become a significant investment if you fail to maintain the property. 

Often, people underestimate how much upkeep their home will require over time. You should check your home for inconsistencies monthly. Even though it may seem like overkill, catching a problem in your home before it settles can save you a great deal of money. Home maintenance is part of the deal when you buy a home, and it will help ensure its value increases over time. 

When looking for problems in your house, knowing what to look for and where to look is essential. There are quite a few areas of the house that are frequently overlooked, resulting in severe damage and expensive construction. Our list below outlines 5 common household repair issues you may overlook. 

Gutters 

Gutters are relatively hard to see, which makes them an easy spot to miss. Most likely you won't notice your gutters are going bad until they're at their most decomposed. You should check your gutters at least twice a year. You may want to check them more or less often depending on the type of foliage in your area and the weather patterns. Desert residents, such as here in Albuquerque, might go about a year between gutter cleanings, as opposed to those living in heavily wooded areas or areas prone to snow might want to check their gutters multiple times throughout the year. 

Roofs & Chimneys

Unaddressed defects in roofs and chimneys can lead to expensive problems. At least once a year, you should have a professional check the condition of your roof. The best time to get a professional opinion is in the spring. Since the fall and winter weather is often the worst, you can tell if your roof has a leak or any structural problems. When inspecting your roof yourself, head into your attic space to check for signs of mold or mildew. 

Every year, chimneys should be inspected before use. If you don't feel confident that you know what you're doing, enlist a professional to inspect your chimney for you. When your chimney flue cracks, it can lead to the build-up of toxic chemicals and smoke inside your house, resulting in serious damage to both your home and your health. 

Leaking Faucets 

Leaving a leaky faucet unattended can cost up to thousands of dollars. Leaking faucets deteriorate your sink and waterline because of the extra wear and tear they cause. You will need to replace the entire sink and faucet unit sooner than you would have if you did not treat it. Your utility bill will also rise if your faucet leaks because water consumption still counts. Whenever you notice a leaking faucet, get it fixed as soon as possible. 

Foundational Cracks

Your house can suffer from foundational cracks. Cracks become worse over time, costing more to fix if left untreated. Moisture can also seep into foundational cracks, allowing mold to grow. You shouldn't try to fix foundational cracks on your own unless you are a professional. You should consult a professional who has experience dealing with all degrees of foundational cracks, and work with them to resolve your issue. Even though you may have to pay up front to fix the damages, you'll save a lot if you deal with the issue sooner rather than later. 

Rodents or Pests

Although it may seem hard to believe, household owners often ignore rodents or pests in their homes. Oftentimes it's through no real fault of their own, however, as rodents and pests can find their way into the foundation, walls, roofs, and basements of homes. For instance, termites are hard to find until it's too late because their main source of food is within your walls. Think about having an inspection once a year to ensure there hasn't been an outbreak. 

There are ways to check your home for rodents and pests and we suggest doing so even if you feel your home couldn't possibly be housing them. Look for the destruction of your insulation, baseboards, or drywall. If you hear random noises in your walls or attic, it's typically a rodent or family of pets. It's important to contact a professional exterminator right away if you suspect your home has become inhabited by rodents or pests. 

HOT ALBUQUERQUE PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

917 AVENIDA ESTRELLITA NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110

Nostalgia for the past! Original charm in this 3BDR/2BA mid-century modern style home! ROOF 2021! Refrigerated air, tankless water heater, skylights, updated kitchen, updated windows! Open living/dining room features hardwood floors and a wood fireplace plus a large family room with built-ins! Light, bright & open kitchen. Large utility room with storage cabs. Secondary bath features a walk-in jetted bath! Huge covered patio & open deck for entertaining! Large lot with newly landscaped front yard! Backyard with mature trees, shrubs, and storage shed! Carport/Breeze Way w/storage! Customize your updates to your style! Great location close to Altura Park, UNM, Nob Hill, shopping and restaurants!REQUEST MORE INFORMATION

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.

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Are you in the market for your first home, or looking to upgrade? These latest listings are just what you've been waiting for! But don't wait too long, as they's sure to sell fast in this hot Albuquerque real estate market!

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

Come home to your oasis! Clean, immaculate, and lovingly cared for. Three comfortable bedrooms, 2 baths in a beautiful easy-care community. Enjoy the green grass park, gazebo, and community pool to cool you off in summer. A completely private and secure flagstone, adobe-walled patio accessed by a lovely concrete-stamped breezeway. Plenty of New Mexican charm, and upgrades galore! Relax knowing the townhome comes with MANY updates: kitchen, TPO roof, refrigerated air, windows, wood flooring, and bathrooms. TONS of storage in this family home. Convenient location near the center of town. 10 minutes to the zoo, botanic gardens, UNM, CNM, theaters, and old town! Must see to believe!

Learn More!

9628 ENTRADA VISTA Avenue NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120

Beautiful 3BDR/3BA/2CG DR Horton Build Green NM-Silver home in Prima Entrada! Lots of living space in the great room! Large loft/recreation area & laundry room located upstairs for convenience! Light, bright & open kitchen features a walk-in pantry, breakfast nook and bar, tile flooring & gas range! Refrigerated air & tankless water heater! Private master suite features his & her walk-in closets, raised dual sink vanity and garden tub! Landscaped front and backyard! Views! Enjoy the outdoor living space with your morning coffee under the gazebo and relax and entertain family & friends for Summer BBQs!! Close to the Petroglyphs, easy access to I-40 for KAFB, Alb International Sunport, UNM, downtown!

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.

The Spring home selling season is well underway in Albuquerque, and homes are selling fast. With reduced interest rates and reduced inventory, now is an ideal time to sell your home.

If you do decide to put your home for sale on the Albuquerque market, one of the first things you should look at is your home's curb appeal. After all, first impressions are critical when selling a home. 

Fixing up your home's curb appeal is also a great way to stay busy and healthy. It's a task that will also pay off when you sell your home and get a higher price for it.

Here are a few simple and affordable ways to boost your home's curb appeal:

Take care of your lawn

Your front yard is probably the most obvious part of your home's curb appeal. If you have a grass lawn, make sure it's mowed regularly and any debris is removed. And make sure to keep it watered and fertilized to prevent brown spots.

Let there be light

Is your entryway looking a bit dark? You may just need to clean off the cobwebs and debris to make your entry look more bright and clean. If you need some additional light sources, hang some porch string lights or use solar powered lanterns to light up a walkway.

Embrace symmetry

Symmetry is an important part of design and creates focal points that are pleasing to look at. You can achieve this by placing matching wall lanterns or plants on either side of your front door. If you don’t have room at your entryway, you can do the same thing around your garage door.

Clean your gutters

Clean gutters both inside and out, clearing out any debris and really scrubbing the outsides until they look good as new (or as close to new as you can get them looking). You’ll be in awe at what a little elbow grease can do.

Power wash it off

Power washing your drive and walkways is a great way to improve your curb appeal. See if you can borrow a power washer if you don't have one. If local restrictions allow, you can rent one for an affordable price.

Fix it up

If you have the tools to do so, go around your home and find anything that needs a quick fix, such as ripped screens, burned out bulbs, or chipped paint. Even tiny flaws can stand out against an otherwise picturesque exterior, so it’s worth taking a day to fix them. 

Utilize outdoor furniture smartly

Too much outdoor furniture can clutter your home’s appearance, while too little can make it look scarce or neglected. Try to find a good balance somewhere in the middle, and be sure that all outdoor furniture you have is clean and in good condition. For small yards, think about putting in simple ceramic stools for seating and add some extra charm by setting up a small table with a pretty planter on the top.

You can boost your home's curb appeal in just a day or weekend if you plan ahead. 

HOT ALBUQUERQUE PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

7408 KRISTA Drive NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109

Come and view this beautiful corner lot in the NE Heights! Home has 4 bedrooms (possible 6), + 2 remodeled bathrooms. There so many updates on this home including: NEW roof and skylight on front patio (2020), Exterior painted (2020), Interior painted (2021), NEW kitchen flooring (2022), NEW wood laminate flooring (2022), NEW dishwasher (2022), NEW stove (2021), NEW fixtures (2021), NEW bedroom carpet (2021), Both bathrooms were remodeled in 2018! This home will not last long - schedule an appointment today!

Learn More!

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

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Are you thinking about ditching the rental and owning your own home in Albuquerque? An important component of becoming a homeowner is the down payment. When you want to buy a home, saving for a down payment is likely to be the biggest obstacle.

Down payments are the cash you put down when making a large purchase. You would need $35,000 in cash to buy a $350,000 house with a 10% down payment.

Ultimately, your mortgage lender will provide the rest of the money to buy the home, and you will repay your lender over time. Down payments are generally required by lenders, with a few exceptions, such as VA loans.

Putting down 20% is recommended if you're buying a house, but that can be a lot of money.

What can you do if you live paycheck to paycheck? While it may be possible, you may also need to change your routine.

Take the First Step

Although it might seem impossible to save money when you're barely making ends meet, make one first step towards your goal. Taking that small step is the best way to begin, even if it seems symbolic.

Start by opening a savings account that will be used exclusively for the down payment. It will accrue interest over time, which will help.

Create a Budget

It may be that you are living paycheck to paycheck, but that does not have to be the case.

When you look at what's going out versus what's coming in, you may find that you can still save some money even with your current income.

If you are not being honest with yourself about your income and spending, you might not realize how much you are spending on unnecessary items. Nevertheless, being honest is worthwhile.

Include in your budget the amount that you will set aside every week or month for your down payment.

Even small contributions do add up over time if you’re consistent and patient.

Many financial professionals recommend following the 50/30/20 rule when creating your budget. Rent, for example, would take up 50% of your income. A third of the budget goes toward lifestyle expenses such as eating out. Savings or debt repayment should account for the other 20%.

Cut Out Subscriptions

Regularly evaluating your subscription fees and cutting them out is one of the best things you can do for your finances. Despite the simple concept, the average person in the United States spends $237 a month on subscriptions. It's a lot of money that could be used somewhere else.

Go Over Every Bill Carefully

Because your income is relatively low in comparison to your expenses, you should go through every single bill and transaction carefully.

There are several reasons for this.

The first thing you need to do is make sure you aren't paying for mistakes. You may also be able to find cheaper options. It may be possible to negotiate a lower interest rate on your credit cards if you make on-time payments in the past, or you might be able to get discounted car insurance rates if you are a good driver.

If you know where to look and are willing to ask, you can save money on your bills.

Add Income

As a last step, add extra income to your life once your budget is in order. It can be done in so many ways. Perhaps you deliver groceries or work for a rideshare service when you are not working your full-time job.

Adding another source of income puts you that much closer to your down payment, regardless of what it is.

Your secondary income should go directly into your down payment savings account so you won't be tempted to spend it elsewhere.

As you can see, with a few adjustments in your life, you can find the money you need to save for a down payment on your next home in Albuquerque.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

616 LA VETA Drive NE, Albuquerque, NM 87108

Fantastic, 3 bedroom home now available with 2 spacious living areas, cozy fireplace and lots of natural light. Kitchen features stainless steel appliances, granite counters and all appliances stay! Modern bathrooms and updated kitchen make this home a gem. Beautiful hardwood floors and tile throughout. Large bedrooms. Front has lovely flagstone patio with rose bushes ready to bloom! Backyard is blank canvas for your dreams to become realized. Come see this home today, it wont last!

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.

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Finding the home of your dreams in Albuquerque can be an amazing experience. You can fall head over heels for a home the second you step into the living room, and just fall more and more in love as you walk through the rest of it. This can make you overlook some major flaws that you wouldn’t have if you hadn’t been blinded by your love of the home. While the house might be perfect on the surface, it might not be the house for you. Here are some tips on picking a home that you’ll love and is right for you.

Shop Within Your Budget

Speak to your lender and get a price limit that you can comfortably afford based on your income and current debts. Then only look at homes that are within that price range. This will keep you from falling in love that would overextend you and put the bank’s investment at risk.

Work With a Real Estate Professional

When you look on the internet, you run the risk of finding a home way out of your league. You’re more than welcome to look online, just make sure to stay in your price range. If you look at homes that are more expensive than you can afford you’re going to fall in love with the extras and space you’ll find there. Share your wish list with a real estate professional and let them preview homes for you.

Shop for the Size You Need

Buying a home that’s too big is a common mistake buyers make. While you might think that buying a home with the most space with the money you have is a good idea, remember the operating costs of heating and cooling and the hassle of keeping all those rooms clean. Plan out how many rooms you’ll need and stick to a home with that many rooms.

Shop for Your Lifestyle

Consider your lifestyle. If you’re single and travel often, you probably don’t want a home with lots of land to maintain, you’d probably want a condo or something on a smaller lot in a gated community. If you have kids, you’ll probably want something in a nice neighborhood with lots of parks nearby.

Keep Your Commute in Mind

While they offer the most comforts and space, many of the newest homes are built on cheaper land that’s farther from city centers. Keep the commute to work in mind when you’re picking a home or neighborhood.

Remember You Have to Live in the House

A home can look absolutely perfect on the surface, but be completely impossible to function in. Is there space for a table to put your keys? Is there a place where the kids can drop their backpacks after school? Does your office have enough space to work in? Are there enough bathrooms for everyone to use during that morning rush?

Don’t Let a Home’s Look Fool You

Affordable homes are often older or need a little work. You can often turn a so-so home into the perfect home with some minor cosmetic updates. No home is perfect, so don’t worry about by ugly wallpaper or paint, as it can be easily changed. The right house for you might not be the biggest, prettiest, newest house on the block, but it should be the house that fits the many needs of your household. When comparing homes remember to keep your wish list, price range, number of bedrooms needed, space and amenities that are needed, in mind. Once you move in you’ll see that that the perfect home is the one that suits you and your needs best.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

616 LA VETA Drive NE, Albuquerque, NM 87108

Fantastic, 3 bedroom home now available with 2 spacious living areas, cozy fireplace and lots of natural light. Kitchen features stainless steel appliances, granite counters and all appliances stay! Modern bathrooms and updated kitchen make this home a gem. Beautiful hardwood floors and tile throughout. Large bedrooms. Front has lovely flagstone patio with rose bushes ready to bloom! Backyard is blank canvas for your dreams to become realized. Come see this home today, it wont last!

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.

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team