Real Estate Information Archive

Do you know how much your Albuquerque home is worth? It will probably be about the same price as other homes in your neighborhood that have sold recently and are similar to your home.

These homes and their values are known as "comps", or comparable sales. Knowing the value of comps in your area in Albuquerque will give you the best idea of the current estimated value of your home.

Knowing how much homes similar to yours, called comparable sales (or in real estate lingo, comps), sold for gives you the best idea of the current estimated value of your home. The trick is finding sales that closely match yours.

What makes a good comparable sale?

The ideal comparable sale is a home that is almost the same as your house int he same subdivision. But that kind of scenario isn't as common. Here are other factors to consider:

Location:

The closer to your house the better, but don’t just use any comparable sale within a mile radius. A good comparable sale is a house in your neighborhood, your subdivision, on the same type of street as your house, and in your school district.

Home type:

Try to find comparable sales that are like your home in style, construction material, square footage, number of bedrooms and baths, basement (having one and whether it’s finished), finishes, and yard size.

Amenities and upgrades:

How many upgrades does the comp have? Does it have the same amenities as your home, such as AC, a deck, or a pool? Does the community it's in have similar amenities?

Date of sale:

Home values fluctuate, so you can't use a value from a year ago. In fact, most lenders say that comparable sales can be no older than 90 days.

Agents can help adjust price based on insider knowledge

Of course, it's very difficult to find an exact clone of your home and neighborhood in most cases. That's where the expert advice of your agent comes in. An experienced real estate agent will examine the differences between your home and comps to adjust the value to match your specific home.

Your agent has certainly been in a lot of homes in your neighborhood, so they know all sorts of details about the comps in the area. They read the comments from other agents in the MLS (multiple listing service) and have heard what other realtors, lenders, closing agents, and appraisers said about the comparable sale. You can rely on the experience of Sandi Pressley and her team to get the most accurate estimate of your Albuquerque home possible.

More ways to pick a home listing price

If you’re still having trouble picking out a listing price for your home, look at the current competition. Ask your real estate agent to be honest about your home and the other homes on the market.

Next, put your comparable sales into two piles: more expensive and less expensive. What makes your home more valuable than the cheaper comparable sales and less valuable than the pricier comparable sales?

HOT ALBUQUERQUE PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

2220 EDNA Avenue NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104

Beautiful North Valley location in the historic old town area. Lot is ready to build on. Water meter is purchased, city water and sewer are hooked up, electric and gas are in the street. Seller has even paid for the curb cut. Seller has spent over $15,000 on improvements to the lot to make it build ready. Enjoy the charm and convenience of the North Valley with close proximity to Old town and sawmill district.

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 looking for a great home Albuquerque that's ready to go now, or are you wanting to build your own dream home? Our latest HOT properties are just waht you're looking for.

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

Smart Efficient Designed for the future. BuildGreenNM Bronze! Owned Solar panels ensure $8/mo PNM bills AND this home banks electricity every month thx to high function high producing panels. Perfect for your new Tesla! Smart thermostats & drip systems. Environmentally sustainable Synlawn in front & back for yr-round lawns no mowing or watering. Wired for security cameras & speakers in and out. Ring doorbell & alarm. Xtra storage upstairs and down. Big functional kitchen with granite counters Eat-in kitchen island with breakfast bar & raised-panel wood cabinets <1 yr old microwave, dishwasher & stove. Gray-toned wood laminate floors, 18'' tile, carpet only in bedrooms. BIG spares & walk-in closets in every bedroom. Crows Nest Loft with beautiful mtn views. Custom ceiling fans throughout!

Learn More!

2220 EDNA Avenue NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104

Beautiful North Valley location in the historic old town area. Lot is ready to build on. Water meter is purchased, city water and sewer are hooked up, electric and gas are in the street. Seller has even paid for the curb cut. Seller has spent over $15,000 on improvements to the lot to make it build ready. Enjoy the charm and convenience of the North Valley with close proximity to Old town and sawmill district.

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.

Are you thinking about buying a vacation or investment home in Albuquerque? What's the difference between the two, and why does it matter?

There are a few differences in mortgage rules for a second home in Albuquerque as compared to your primary home. You should also know the key differences between buying a second home and an investment property, since these terms are often used interchangeably.

What Does "Second Home" Mean?

In addition to your primary residence, a second home is a property that you live in part of the year. A second home is usually a vacation home, but it can also be a place you go for work. Maybe you have a condo in a city where you often work, but it's not your main residence.

Getting a mortgage for a second home usually requires it to either be in a vacation or resort location, or to be at a certain distance from your primary residence.

Loans for second homes usually have lower interest rates than loans for investment properties.

There is also likely to be a Second Home Rider attached to your loan.

Under the rider, you are obligated to occupy and use the property as your second home. There cannot be any agreements requiring you to rent the property or give a management company or third-party control over its use, or the property cannot be part of a rental pool or timeshare.

It is important to note that while this is the general definition a lender might use, every lender will have their own requirements.

For instance, some lenders won't give you a second home loan if you plan to rent out your home. There are others who will give you a loan as long as you are planning to live in the home for a certain number of days every year, even if the house is also going to be rented.

What About Financing An Investment Property?

The financing process for a second home differs from that of an investment property, so understanding the differences is important. A second home is typically easier to finance than an investment property.

Most second home mortgages have rates that are comparable to those for buying a primary home, and credit requirements are similar as well.

Investment property mortgages are harder to qualify for, and the interest rate and origination fees are likely to be higher.

It doesn't mean investment property mortgages aren't beneficial.

You might be able to get a loan more easily if you own an investment property because the property will generate cash flow to cover your loan and other expenses.

What About the IRS?

As far as comparing a second home with an investment property, the IRS has its own guidelines. You can use a property as a second home if you use it at least 14 days each year, or 10% of the time you rent it. It's an investment property if you don't meet that standard.

The question is, why is it important?

Mortgage interest can be deducted from your tax return if you own a second home. Up to $750,000 in qualifying residential debt can be used to offset interest paid.

In the case of an investment property, you can take the same deduction, but you can deduct interest on the mortgage as a rental income expense.

If you own an investment property, you can claim a depreciation expense, which will reduce the amount of your rental income that is taxable. Regardless of how the IRS classifies the home, if you use it and rent it, you have to divide expenses according to when you use it.

Lastly, if you're considering fudging the truth, don't do it. If you aren't honest about your intended use of the property, then it can be considered mortgage fraud, which is illegal.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

This gorgeous Roger Smith built home is located in a very private quiet compound in desirable Sandia Heights! Lots of natural light and windows to enjoy the peaceful scenery. This 1800 sf 3 bedroom 2 bath home features a mid century modern vibe with soft clean lines that are timeless in nature, raised T & G wood ceiling, remodeled kitchen and baths, beautiful wood floors in all bedrooms. Private owners suite with spa like bath and access to the inviting backyard. Please see all updates/improvements in documents to many to list. Artistically landscaped yard with mature trees, flowers and plants. Close to Sandia Tram, walking and hiking trails. Home has been meticulously maintained with enormous pride of ownership.

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

It's already a stressful process when you buy a house in Albuquerque. Home inventory is low right now, despite falling prices in many markets and rising interest rates. The shortage of inventory has led some buyers to waive home inspections or use escalation clauses in their contracts, which they wouldn't normally do.

Whatever you do to get your dream home in Albuquerque, don't skip the final walk-through.

You should walk through the house again after making an offer to ensure it is still in good condition. It is your responsibility to ensure that the seller completed the repairs or improvements you negotiated.

Who Comes to the Final Walk-Through?

The final walk-through is usually attended by the buyer and the buyer's agent. Buyers can inspect everything at their pace without feeling pressured by sellers or their agents since they're usually not present.

A builder or contractor may come if the house is new. A walk-through of a new build is primarily intended to identify cosmetic issues. There will be high expectations since the home is brand new.

In cases where issues were discovered during a home inspection that needed to be corrected before closing, the inspector may need to return to make sure everything was done correctly. If you have another inspection, you should schedule that before you do your final walk-through.

Scheduling

Usually, you'll do your final walk-through within 24 hours of closing. Your agent can help you schedule and coordinate access times with the seller's agent.

The final walk-through is often performed the night before or even on the way to the closing. 

It depends on you, your agent, and the house how long a final walk-through takes. If the home is small, it can take 15 minutes. Extra time might be needed if you have a pool or a detached building. If the house is larger, it may take an hour or more.

Do not feel rushed, so take your time. Make sure you check everything.

It’s Not a Home Inspection

It's important to remember that your walk-through isn't an inspection. This is an opportunity to address any issues raised during the inspection.

During the walk-through, your agent should bring documents that provide guidance and confirm everything is as it should be. A seller's disclosure form, inspection report, and repair amendments agreed to by the seller will be included in this documentation.

If the seller made repairs after the inspection, ask for receipts, which they should bring with you to the walk-through.

There’s no fee for a walk-through either—it’s just part of the process.

What If You Find An Issue?

Finding a major issue during a final walk-through can be a serious issue. Approximately 5% of contracts were terminated in January of this year due to non-compliance.

A minor issue doesn't necessarily mean it's a deal breaker. What might end up happening is that you delay your closing a few days to fix the problem or request a credit at closing so you can deal with the repairs needed after you move in.

Negotiations are usually the best way to resolve issues. If it isn't a big deal, your agent might even recommend proceeding with the closing. Unfinished repairs like missing appliances or major property damage cannot be overlooked. At this point, most sellers will want to make things right.

Can You Back Out?

Unless there's a significant change in the property's condition, it's tricky to end your purchase agreement after a final walk-through. It's better to try and work it out so that the seller gives up the money needed to make the repairs if there's something small.

Depending on your real estate contract, you may be able to back out if the property doesn't meet your expectations.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

This gorgeous Roger Smith built home is located in a very private quiet compound in desirable Sandia Heights! Lots of natural light and windows to enjoy the peaceful scenery. This 1800 sf 3 bedroom 2 bath home features a mid century modern vibe with soft clean lines that are timeless in nature, raised T & G wood ceiling, remodeled kitchen and baths, beautiful wood floors in all bedrooms. Private owners suite with spa like bath and access to the inviting backyard. Please see all updates/improvements in documents to many to list. Artistically landscaped yard with mature trees, flowers and plants. Close to Sandia Tram, walking and hiking trails. Home has been meticulously maintained with enormous pride of ownership.

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

What are you looking for in a home in Albuquerque? Whatever it is, chances are these outstanding new listings have it! Take a look at all these latest HOT Albuquerque propeties have to offer. But act fast, as they're sure to sell fast.

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

This gorgeous Roger Smith built home is located in a very private quiet compound in desirable Sandia Heights! Lots of natural light and windows to enjoy the peaceful scenery. This 1800 sf 3 bedroom 2 bath home features a mid century modern vibe with soft clean lines that are timeless in nature, raised T & G wood ceiling, remodeled kitchen and baths, beautiful wood floors in all bedrooms. Private owners suite with spa like bath and access to the inviting backyard. Please see all updates/improvements in documents to many to list. Artistically landscaped yard with mature trees, flowers and plants. Close to Sandia Tram, walking and hiking trails. Home has been meticulously maintained with enormous pride of ownership.

Learn More!

1011 Puebla Drive, Bernalillo, NM 87004

Immaculate one-story home in the much desired Santiago Subdivision. The natural sunlight from the skylights throughout makes this home bright and open, perfect for entertaining! This home is also handicap accessible with a 36'' wide door frames and 43'' hallway, entrance from the garage into the home with no steps for easy access. Spacious MB and bath featuring double sinks, garden tub, and separate shower with bench. Upgrades to include: Rain gutters, NEW Water Heater (2021), NEW REF A/C Unit (2021), NEW CARPET w/ plush padding (2021), NEW laundry room cabinets, and folding area, (CA Closets). Outside has a covered patio w/ a serene private setting, easy maintenance yard with turf, native plants, and 55 gallon vertical water barrel, and water feature.

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.

In order to increase storage space and comfort, avoid cleaning, and move easily around the kitchen after years of collecting different types of utensils, kitchen essentials, and kitchen appliances, it's a smart idea to renovate your Albuquerque kitchen. Make your kitchen more organized and functional with these new-age kitchen remodeling ideas. 

1. Splash Paint

If you want a loud vibe in your kitchen, try bright colors, or if you want a timid vibe, try light colors. Finish it off by applying textures or floral designs. Depending on the color palette and the color contrast, you can choose a different color for each wall. Paint a fresh coat over old cabinets, racks, or furniture too to give the kitchen a fresh new look.

2. Racks for space utilization

To keep your kitchen organized, install open shelves or racks over the upper half. Those racks can be used to store expensive kitchen essentials such as glass, marble, and ceramic. It is easier and faster to find what you need when you are in a hurry by putting a glass door over your kitchen racks. 

3. Wood Flooring

In addition to minimizing the risk of tripping over wet floors, wood flooring gives the kitchen an ethnic farm look. Kitchens are a great place to install wood flooring. The natural wooden color negates the dirtiness of the kitchen floor too. 

4. Kitchen Cabinets

In addition to increasing storage space in the kitchen, better cabinets help keep it neat and organized. Cabinets made of stainless steel or wood last longer. Cabinets can be finished with a rich metallic or marble finish on the outside. It is more affordable to reface your kitchen cabinets, which will improve their condition as well as their décor.

5. Kitchen Dimmer Lights

Elegant kitchens feature dimmer lights. While cooking, you can increase the brightness of the dimmer lights while dimming them for a romantic dinner together. By dimming the light, you can balance your own mood and vibe. It is going to be an obsessively satisfying renovation for the kitchen.

6. Tile Backsplash

If you install a tile backsplash near your stove and chimney, you will spend less time cleaning the kitchen. A wet cloth or kitchen cleaner can be used to clean those tiles. It is a better and smarter option for kitchen renovations because cooking oil, dust, and dirt cannot penetrate tile.

7. Upgrade Kitchen Appliances

Rather than spending a lot of time working in the kitchen, let kitchen appliances take care of a few of your chores. Dishwashers can do a lot of your cleaning for you when they are installed alongside kitchen cabinets. A microwave will heat cold storage food from the refrigerator, mixers, grinders, and juicers will make cooking so much easier.

Everyone needs a well-organized, efficient, and functional kitchen. We spent most of our time in the kitchen. The kitchen is the heart of the house. Our meals are prepared here to start and end the day. Renovating the old kitchen is an essential and fruitful investment. 

HOT ALBUQUERQUE PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

VIEWS and a great neighborhood! Bring the toys, the FOUR CAR garage will fit them! Breathtaking unobstructed views of the Sandia mountains with this premium lot upgrade! This 3 bed 2.5 bath 1 yr old Abrazo home has a massive amount of builder upgrades on a 0.24 acre lot. Porcelain tile and high end cabinets throughout. The MB features a large walk-in closet, his/her sinks, garden tub, 60'' glass frameless shower with nicho and rain shower head. The kitchen has a 5 burner gas stove with a beautiful backsplash, huge farm sink, pendant lights, and glass/stainless hood vent. Upgraded Snowridge granite throughout. Backyard has nearly 2,500 sf of SynLawn installed PRO-80 synthetic turf providing a field of dreams for the kiddos or pets! This home will wow anyone!

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

If you've been waiting for the ideal mid-priced Albuquerque home to hit the market, here are two outstanding homes for sale for you to consider. They offer tons of room and emmenitites for the price. But don't wait, as these hot homes are sure to sell fast!

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

VIEWS and a great neighborhood! Bring the toys, the FOUR CAR garage will fit them! Breathtaking unobstructed views of the Sandia mountains with this premium lot upgrade! This 3 bed 2.5 bath 1 yr old Abrazo home has a massive amount of builder upgrades on a 0.24 acre lot. Porcelain tile and high end cabinets throughout. The MB features a large walk-in closet, his/her sinks, garden tub, 60'' glass frameless shower with nicho and rain shower head. The kitchen has a 5 burner gas stove with a beautiful backsplash, huge farm sink, pendant lights, and glass/stainless hood vent. Upgraded Snowridge granite throughout. Backyard has nearly 2,500 sf of SynLawn installed PRO-80 synthetic turf providing a field of dreams for the kiddos or pets! This home will wow anyone!

Learn More!

9315 ADMIRAL LOWELL Place NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111

Great Opportunity! Beautiful brick townhome situated in desirable Far Northeast Heights neighborhood! Close to top rated schools, shopping, and dining. This 'Move in Ready' single story TH is complete with 2+ bedrooms, 2 Full Bathrooms, two living areas-one being an enclosed heated sunroom. Featuring both formal and informal dining spaces, main living room adorned with high-end Oak paneled walls. Kitchen features stainless Steel appliances, updated counters & cabinets w/pull-outs. Large primary suite hosts a connecting exercise/hobby room & indulgent en suite w/jetted tub & separate shower. Refrigerated air. 2020 Solar system is paid in full-see Solar Works docs included in MLS. Professional landscaping includes a tranquil water feature, brick pavers, trees & shrubs.

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.

Have you been considering a lifestyle upgrade? If you're looking for the ideal luxury home in Albuquerque, here are two outstanding opportunities. These luxury Albuquerque homes are ready to engulf you with luxury appointments throughout and more than enough space to ensure privacy. 

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

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!

4501 ATHERTON Way NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120

Exquisite custom Tuscan home-in the gated community of Oxbow North. Impeccable hand crafted cabinetry throughout, travertine tile with inlay, gourmet kitchen with Wolf Appliances and Sub-Zero Refrigerator. Commercial grade radiant heating system (plus central forced air).Two master suites, 3 custom fireplaces, tiled balcony with breathtaking views of the city and mountains. Surround sound in great room and loft area, 4 car tandem garage..and so much more. Enjoy your next memorable home.

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 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.

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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