Real Estate Information Archive

Are you unemployed and thinking about buying a home in Albuquerque? You might think it's an impossible feat. But it might be possible to still qualify for a mortgage if you have other forms of income.

In short, you can't use your unemployment benefits to get a mortgage, but there may be other options to help you buy a home in Albuquerque.

What Forms of Income Count?

There are numerous types of income you can use if you are trying to get a mortgage. If you have dividends from investments or Social Security income, these can be included as income for mortgage purposes.

Another option is to have a co-signer.

Mortgage lenders do not consider unemployment income because it's a short-term source of income. Therefore, it isn't qualified income. Getting a mortgage while you are unemployed requires that at least one of the applicants has financial documentation.

In most cases, lenders require a stable income for at least two years. Lenders must also prove that income will continue for at least three years into the future. A lender cannot verify your future earnings if you're recently unemployed.

What Happens If You Return to Work?

Once you return to work after being on unemployment, you may not have to show a two-year job history to a lender. Depending on certain factors, reapplying for a mortgage might not even be necessary.

The factors can include, for example, whether or not you have income from other sources, how you handled your finances while unemployed, or the size of your down payment.

In the event that you have not yet started your new job, but you have an offer letter for employment, you may be able to qualify for a mortgage. The letter may need to verify that you'll be employed within 90 days of getting the mortgage, and it should also show your income.

Applying with a Co-Signer

A co-borrower will make it easier for you to get a mortgage following an unemployment period. When making an assessment, a lender will consider the income, debt-to-income ratio, and credit score of the other borrower.

Your co-borrower will need to have a good credit rating and a steady, verifiable income.

What is Considered Income?

Regular income payments made to you are counted by most lenders when determining whether you qualify for a mortgage.

This can include, for instance, income from a traditional job as well as many types of government benefits, self-employment, child support, and alimony. You can include income from rental properties if you own them. Payments you receive as a freelancer also count.

Lenders consider retirement and disability benefits to be income. Dividends, capital gains, and interest income can sometimes be considered.

Among the things that do not count as income are income that's not listed on tax returns, illegal income and projected income. If a lender is unable to verify your income, it won't be accepted, and capital withdrawals can't be used.

As a whole, you cannot use unemployment income to get a mortgage, but there are other options, such as finding a co-signer or co-borrower, or using other forms of income.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

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.

When it comes to buying a house, Albuquerque first-time homebuyers have a serious problem. Despite an easing in acceleration, home prices continue to rise at record levels.

This trend is likely to continue for several reasons. Motivated buyers are plentiful, housing supply is limited, and mortgage rates are low. Prices for almost everything, including homes, are rising due to inflation. In a low-interest rate environment, buyers can buy more than they would ordinarily be able to, and this can result in heated bidding wars.

Additionally, sellers are staying put since they don't want to jump into a highly competitive buying market, further limiting the supply of available homes.

It's hard for homebuilders to get the materials they need, and if they do, labor is in short supply.

What are the implications of this for first-time buyers or anyone buying a house in Albuquerque?

Priced Out: What Does It Mean?

When you're priced out of the housing market, you cannot afford even a starter home. First-time buyers are often priced out for a variety of reasons, many of which are currently converging.

Your hard-earned down payment isn't going as far as you planned if you are trying to buy a house right now. You may not be able to pay for a house even if you save 20% of what you were planning to pay.

What are your options?

Although it may seem logical to keep renting, rent prices are increasing due to inflation and wages aren't keeping up, so renting isn't always the best option.

Although none of your options might be perfect, when you're priced out, your choices are limited.

Save More

Depending on where you live, you might have to keep renting and add to your savings if the market isn't currently affordable. At the same time, this allows you to wait a little longer until the market improves. If you want to re-enter the market successfully, you may have to be patient since it could take a couple of years.

It's better to think about your monthly expenses instead of the sales price when you're considering what you can afford.

If you want to wait out the market and put more money aside, don't just put it in your regular savings account. Some of your savings may need to go into riskier but higher-earning options, such as stocks.

Be Flexible

Changing your expectations is another option you have when you're priced out of the market. In the current market, limited inventory and other factors may make you give up some of your wish list items, or even more than a few.

Perhaps you'll end up buying a fixer-upper that fits your budget. The key to being a first-time buyer in today's market is to be humble.

Geographically broaden your home search

Likewise, you may have to give up some of your wish list as far as home features, and you may also need to broaden your geographic search. Prices for homes can differ considerably from one neighborhood to the next or from one suburb to the next. Have you considered buying a home in surrounding Albuquerque communities such as Rio Rancho, Placitas, Corrales, Bernalillo, or Sandia Heights, just to name a few?

Choosing the Right Real Estate Agent

Finally, as a first-time buyer, you will have a hard time navigating the current market without the help of a great real estate agent. Despite your ability to find an affordable home, you may face stiff competition.

Having a real estate professional who knows about properties before they hit the market will give you an advantage. As well as helping you understand your local market, they can help you adjust your expectations.

You can cut some of the stress out of the buying process by hiring a real estate pro to negotiate on your behalf. Contact Sandi Pressley and her team today to see how they can use their years of experience buying homes in Albuquerque to help you realize your home owning goals.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

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.

Homes are selling fast in Albuquerque, so we're excited to bring you these latest HOT listings! But there's no time to waste, so make sure you arrange to see these fabulous homes in person.

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.

6320 BOBCAT HILL Place NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111

Highly sought after gated community in High Desert. situated on a PREMIUM VIEW LOT! Plus, take in the mountain views from the Wall of Windows in the great room, featuring soaring ceilings, a beautiful fireplace with built-in's and adjoining dining room. Owner's suite is on main level. Bright, sunny eat in Kitchen with breakfast nook, granite counter tops and Stainless Steel appliances. Spacious loft/office plus two bright and light bedrooms upstairs plus full bath. Loft could be a 4th bedroom if you enclosed it. New TPO roof in 2020; new hot water heater-60 gallon tank in 2018; new furnace & refrigerated air 2018 with high ratings for its efficiency; new carpet 2019; and so much more! View decks/balconies to take in the breathtaking city & sunset views! Near amazing hiking and biking trail

Learn More!

8535 OLD COTTONWOOD Avenue SW, Albuquerque, NM 87121

ACROSS FROM THE PARK!! 4BDR/3BA/2CG featuring 3 living areas; family room, living room and loft/rec area! Beautifully updated with tile flooring & tile surround at gas fireplace, interior paint, SOLAR system! Light, bright floor plan features an open kitchen with island, bkfst bar, gas stove, built-in micro, pantry, sunny bkfst nook open to the large living room with gas fireplace! Master suite features a walk-in closet, sep shower & garden tub. Huge loft can be used as rec room/playroom/office! Sep utility room! Beautiful backyard has open patio, easy care rock landscape and is walled for privacy. Great location across from the park, close to shopping restaurants and easy access to I-40!

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 you get a mortgage to buy a home in Albuquerque, you are taking out a long-term loan. Mortgages are used to finance the purchase of a home. As well as repaying your principal, you make interest payments to your lender. Your house and land serve as collateral for the loan. A mortgage consists of two basic components: principal and interest. The following sections describe what they are and how they impact you as a borrower.

What is a Principal Payment?

As a borrower, you will initially borrow a certain amount of money, which is called the principal. You calculate your principal by subtracting the final selling price of your home from your down payment. Your budget and how much home you can afford are determined largely by your principal. 

As soon as you borrow money, interest begins to accrue. Mortgages are typically paid in monthly installments over a 15- or 30-year period. The outstanding principal on your mortgage refers to how much you still owe.

Interest on a Mortgage

Mortgages don't just require you to pay the principal each month. You also pay interest. A lender charges you interest to let you borrow money. The interest rate is determined by a percentage. The money you pay each month goes toward your principal and interest, and the two are combined into a single payment to your lender.

Does Your Mortgage Principal Change?

With most home loans, your monthly payments don't change despite paying down your principal over time. However, you will end up paying less interest over time. 3% of a smaller remaining principal, for example, is going to cost you less than 3% of your entire principal when your loan is processed. Even though your payments remain the same, you're putting more toward your principal. 

Payment changes could occur on rare occasions. Getting an adjustable-rate mortgage is one example. Home loans come in two varieties. The first is adjustable-rate and the second is fixed-rate. Your interest rate will remain the same throughout the term of your loan if you take out a fixed-rate loan. A variable-rate mortgage has periodic rate changes. If the rate goes up, so do your monthly payments.

After you get enough equity in your home, your lender will cancel your private mortgage insurance, so your payment may change.

Refinancing means replacing your old mortgage with a new one. Therefore, you'll have a new interest rate, monthly payment, and term length on the new one. When you refinance, your principal could change, but it doesn't have to.

Last but not least, you can pay more toward your mortgage than the minimum. You can either make a monthly payment or a lump sum payment. When you make extra payments, you reduce your principal, so you can pay less in interest every month.

When you reduce how much you pay in interest, you get lower monthly payments.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

7509 MCNERNEY Avenue NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110

Wonderful Mossman home in the desirable Uptown area. Beautiful refinished original hardwood floors. Renovated kitchen, with satin finished granite countertops, ample cabinets and island. Two open living spaces, a generous sized dining room, 3 bedrooms. Both bathrooms have been updated. Separate laundry room. Designer Paint colors throughout the home. oversized 2 car garage, room for storage or workshop. Large backyard. Refrigerated Air. Roof replaced in 10/2020. This home is a true Gem.

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 homes like this hit the market in Albuquerque, there's no time to waste! These hot listings are prices to sell fast, so make sure you act now to get into the ideal home for your family in Albuquerque.

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.

515 IRON Avenue SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102

PRIME DOWNTOWN LOCATION READY FOR AN INVESTOR'S TLC....SOLD AS-IS....PRICED TO MOVE. HOME WAS SEPARATED INTO 2 UNITS, BUT COULD EASILY BE MADE BACK INTO ONE. INTERIOR DOOR SEPARATES FRONT UNIT FROM BACK UNIT. ALL OFFERS TO BE REVIEWED SATURDAY AT 5 PM

Learn More!

545 PINON CREEK Road SE, Albuquerque, NM 87123

Views! Views! Views! Enjoy the views & wildlife all around in this natural setting nestled in the foothills!! Open floor plan with lots of natural light! Two balconies & front porch deck!! New roof in 2021! 3 new patio doors in 2021! 2BDR/2BA/2CG plus approx 1033 sf of unfinished bonus storage area on lower level. Large foyer! Skylights! Living/dining room features raised ceilings, clerestory windows, fireplace & balcony with views! Master suite features a fireplace, dual sink vanity, sep shower & sep tub, & balcony with views! Make your own updates with your style in this light, bright & open townhome! Great location close to foothill trails, shopping, parks, easy access to I-40 to KAFB, Sandia Labs, airport, 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.

There is no one way to buy a house, and everyone experiences it differently. One element of buying a home in Albuquerque may be challenging for you while another element may be more challenging for another. In general, a lot of people say the following things are the most challenging when buying a house.

Home Price

Since the pandemic, home prices have risen sharply. Even after they've been able to purchase a property, homeowners say the most challenging aspect of the process was the price.

There are major bidding wars going on, particularly for starter homes, as well as for properties in all price ranges. There is a limited number of homes on the market, people are afraid to sell because they aren't sure if they'll find something else to buy, and mortgage rates are at record lows. All of these factors can make it feel impossible to buy a home.

The Paperwork

One of the most challenging parts of buying a home is the paperwork, although how difficult this is depends on your job and financial situation as well as the type of loan you're applying for.

Self-employed people may have a harder time with paperwork and the loan process itself. Just to get started, you'll need to show several years of tax returns and bank statements. During the waiting period before the loan is finalized, you may feel a lot of anxiety. Loans are usually not finalized until just before closing. You have to wait in limbo until the last moment, and you may not have a clear idea of what’s happening with it during this time of uncertainty. 

The Emotions

Before you start the process, you may not realize how emotionally draining buying a home can be. For example, you might fall in love with a house that's way out of your budget and end up overspending. When you work with an experienced realtor like Sandi Pressley, they can help you stay objective so you don't put yourself in a precarious financial situation. 

It’s easy to start to feel overwhelmed and discouraged when you lose out on a house as well.

During the home-buying process, you should learn how to manage your expectations. You have to prioritize the most important things and be ready to walk away if something like a bad inspection happens.

Saving for a Down Payment

One of the biggest hurdles to buying a home is the down payment, which is determined by the cost of the home. When you're already paying rent, it can be incredibly challenging to save for a significant down payment.

Agreeing

If you're buying your first home with your partner, deciding might be the toughest part.

You may have a completely different idea of what the ideal home is than they do. You may fall in love with something that your partner flatly rejects. It can be challenging, but you can void some of these pitfalls by having in-depth discussions about what you both want early on.

A real estate agent can assist you with many other aspects of buying a home; their job is to make things easier on you and provide their expertise to an otherwise stressful process. You can count on Sandi Pressley and her experienced team to make the home buying process as easy and stress-free as possible.

Today, selling a home in Albuquerque provides outstanding financial benefits. Now is the best time to list if you are ready to make a change, as homes are selling fast. However, if you decide to sell your house right now, you may wonder where you will live when you move.

You may be considering building a new home as one of your options, with so few homes on the market right now. Yet you might be unsure whether that is the best option. Whether you choose to buy a newly constructed home or an existing one, working with a real estate agent is essential to your success.

The Pros of Newly Built Homes

To begin, let's analyze the benefits of buying a newly constructed home. In a brand-new home, you can:

1. Create your perfect home.

Customizing your home from the ground up gives you the ability to choose features such as appliances, finishes, landscaping, layout, and more.

2. Energy efficiency.

Energy-efficient options can help lower your utility costs, reduce your carbon footprint, and protect the environment.

3. Minimal repairs.

Almost all builders offer a warranty, which means you won't have to worry about repairs. Furthermore, you won't have as many little projects to deal with.

4. Eveything is new.

New houses have the advantage that nothing in them will be used. Everything is brand new and yours from day one.

The Pros of Existing Homes

In comparison, let's look at the advantages of buying a home that's already built. With an existing house, you can:

1. Broader variety of home style and floorplan options.

There is a broader range of floor plans and designs to choose from since there have been decades of homes.

2. Move into an established neighborhood.

Before you commit to a new home, you can see the neighborhood, the community, or the traffic patterns first.

3. Mature trees and landscaping.

As well as more developed landscaping and trees in established neighborhoods, you will have more curb appeal and privacy. 

4. Lived-in charm.

It is difficult to recreate the character of older homes. You may prefer an existing home if you value timeless craftsmanship or design elements. 

It's up to you. It doesn't matter what route you choose to start your search for the perfect home - what matters is deciding what features and benefits are most important to you. Making the most educated and informed decision with the help of your trusted real estate advisor will enable you to move into the home of your dreams.

To learn what's available and what's right for you, speak with a member of the Sandi Pressley Tream.

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

9701 LAYTON Avenue NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111

Rare find in La Cueva School District!!! This is technically a condo, but constructed as a townhome. NO HOA!!!! This centrally located gem features NEW Refrigerated Air, NEW Synthetic Lawn, NEW Fencing, NEW ceiling fans and more. The soaring ceiling in the Living Room makes for a comfy space with tons of light & gas fireplace, plus downstairs half bath. Open kitchen with gas appliances and tons of storage. Enjoy 3 bedrooms with balconies allowing for striking views. Schedule this one 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.

Are you planning to buy a home in Albuquerque and work for yourself? These days, it's more common and popular in Albuquerque to be a freelancer, contract worker, gig worker, or anyone self-employed. The downside is that there are no benefits such as health insurance. The same time, there are more upsides for professionals who can work remotely.

One of the advantages is the freedom and flexibility you have to create your own schedule and earn unlimited income. You can also create your own lifestyle by balancing work and personal time.

Freelancers and contractors may encounter a problem, however.

Is it possible to get a mortgage?

It can be difficult to prove your income if you do not have a traditional employer when you apply for a mortgage. Lenders will also scrutinize your application more closely.

Keep Up with Relevant Documents

It's easy to lose track of your earnings and expenditures over time, but when it comes time to apply for a mortgage, being disorganized can become a problem. You can expect to have ups and downs in your income when you're a freelancer or self-employed. A lender wants to see your long-term earnings average. If you can show your lender at least several years' worth of earnings documentation, you should be able to calm their fears.

A pattern of earnings needs to be demonstrated. You might have to delay buying a home until you can do that. The best way to show steady earnings is to show trends that are on the rise.

Furthermore, if you are self-employed, you likely try to write off as much of your business expenses as you can. Obviously, you want to show as high an income as possible, so if you are planning to buy a house in the near future, consider your deductions accordingly.

Rather than W2s, you will need to show your 1099s from the past two years. In addition to your tax returns, you may need to provide bank statements and profit and loss statements. Additionally, you can provide letters from clients proving your relationship is stable.

Income Calculation

The way you calculate your income as a freelancer is different. By dividing the past two years of your adjusted gross income by 24, your lender will arrive at your average monthly income.

Make the most of your savings

In order to avoid paying private mortgage insurance, you should aim to save at least 20% of the home's purchase price. With that in mind, it's best to make a large downpayment in order to demonstrate your reliability as a borrower.

Organize Your Finances

If you're self-employed, you can expect to face more hurdles when buying a home. You will most certainly be held to a higher standard financially, so be prepared.

Ideally, you need a credit score of at least 740. The higher the score, the better.

Put a plan in place to pay off your debt, including your credit cards. A lender's willingness to lend to you is heavily influenced by your credit utilization. It is ideal to use less than 30 percent of your credit limit.

Check your credit report before applying for a home loan. By doing this, you can see where you need to improve and where possible errors may be occurring. It is not uncommon to find errors in credit reports.

Before you apply for a home loan, refrain from opening new accounts or lines of credit, because that will negatively impact your credit score.

Finally, separate your personal and business bank accounts before applying for a mortgage. Your business should not use a personal bank account.

Getting a mortgage as a freelancer is definitely possible, but also more challenging. Prepare yourself for it as much as possible, and you will be more successful in the long run.

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

8116 CORN MOUNTAIN Place NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114

Popular floor plan 4BDR/3BA/3CG plus office/study on the main level plus a large loft! Light, bright & open floor plan with lots of living space featuring an oversized family room with stacked stone fireplace, wall of windows & soaring ceilings, separate living room, formal dining room w/new flooring! Entertainer's kitchen features beautiful cabinetry, solid surface countertops, recessed lighting, island/bar tile flooring, pantry & sunny bkfst nook! Private master suite features huge walk-in closet, dual sink vanity, garden tub & sep shower! Covered patio, shrubs, trees, rock landscape. In the heart of Ventana Ranch West close to schools, parks, pathways, shopping!!

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.

It can be daunting to begin the process of building a custom home rather than buying one of the existing ones in Albuquerque. You know what you're getting when you buy an existing home. There is a lot of uncertainty when doing a custom build.

Choosing a home builder is the first thing you need to do.

What you should know about choosing a builder and some tips to help you along the way are detailed below.

Exactly What is a Home Builder?

This may sound like an obvious question, but not so much. The term home builder has a broad definition. Builders are contractors who construct residential housing, but there are subcategories of home builders.

There are home builders available for hire. An in-house team of professionals works for the company you hire. It is a turnkey project that the team manages from start to finish.

A general contractor is another option. The general contractor will hire and manage workers. Your house will be built by this contractor. General contractors also obtain building permits and materials.

It may be that you hire your own architect to design your home, and then you hire a general contractor to build it.

An agreement with a general contractor typically includes a fee of up to 20% of the project's cost, which covers the contractor's services.

There are also the options of hiring project managers or hiring a construction management company. Subcontractors may be hired and materials may be obtained, and they may charge fees for overseeing the project.

Choosing The Right Builder in Albuquerque

Knowing the different types of homebuilders, how can you select the best one for your project?

• Identify your niche. Considering your budget, home size, and style are all important when building a house. Ensure that the company you choose specializes in the niche that your home falls under. You wouldn't hire a company specializing in luxury properties if you were building a starter home.
• Prepare a list of the most important things to you and a clear vision of what you want before you start talking to builders.
• When comparing contractors, ask to see examples of their work. Furthermore, you'll want to know how long the company has been operating.
• You can learn a lot about contractors from online reviews.
• Credentials should be checked before hiring a builder. The state license and insurance should be up-to-date.
• What kind of warranty does the builder offer?
• A builder's recently built homes should be viewed in person, and if possible, you should take a tour, although this isn't always possible.

Questions to Ask Builders

At least three builders should be interviewed. You must have a clear understanding of what your expectations and timeline are before you do this, as was discussed above.

Among the questions you should ask are whether or not they are willing to provide references and if they offer a guarantee. Once you select a builder, every detail of what you agree upon should be in writing, including how allowances are determined, the type of materials they use (such as copper or plastic plumbing), and how you will work together.

You should call references provided by potential builders. Vendors and subcontractors should also be contacted.

As a first step, you might consider contacting your local home builder's association. They can provide you with a list of local builders.

In addition to real estate agents, such as Sandi Pressley and her team, you may be able to get help from friends or relatives who have worked with a builder.

Building your own home in Albuquerque can be an exciting and life-changing experience. Make sure it’s a positive decision by following these tips above.

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

14412 OAKWOOD Place NE, Albuquerque, NM 87123

A gem nestled in the Foothills! Built in 2000, this 4-Bedroom custom home comes with all the bells & whistles. At 4,665sqft, this home boasts incredible living space made for entertaining. Open kitchen is a chef's delight w/ great new appliances, 5-burner Gas Range, gorgeous granite, large pantry and tons of seating. Spread out w/ the lower level entertaining area, or go outside on any of the multiple balconies, or through the huge backyard with hot tub and so many great views. This smart home features lights that turn on automatically as you enter the room & is wired with surround sound. The Master Suite showcases a luxurious bathroom complete with jetted tub, oversized shower, & custom California Closet. With a water softener, humidifier, and laundry chute, this home truly has it all.

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 selling your Albuquerque home and have dogs? We know you love your dogs. Pet odors or the appearance of a house that has been occupied by pets can make selling a home difficult. The smells your dogs leave behind will be noticed right away by potential buyers.

If you are putting your house up for sale, how can you prevent the smell of pets from permeating the house?

Steam Clean All Fabrics

The best absorbent surfaces are those with a soft texture. As a result, you need to steam clean everything in the house that is fabric.

Dogs are known to stick their paws on everything and leave behind oils, odors, and fur. For this reason, you need to clean carpets, rugs, furniture, and even drapes. Even though it may seem extreme, it could make the difference between selling your home or not.

Grooming

As you likely groom your dog regularly, this is a good time to give them a grooming. But make sure you hire a professional. Therefore, the cleaner will do a better job, and their water will flow down the drain instead of yours.

Brush your dog outside regularly while your house is on the market to prevent hair from falling onto your sofa or rugs.

Clean Tile-Floor Grout

Tile grout absorbs pet stains and smells as well. Stains and odors can be removed by steam cleaning the grout. If the old grout looks bad, hire a professional to remove it and replace it.

Get an Air Purifier

Since you've grown accustomed to pet odors, you might not even notice them. An air purifier with a HEPA filter will remove hair and dander from the air.

When your air filters are changed regularly, most air ducts do not need to be cleaned. If, however, dander and fur seem to be taking over your home, you may need to hire a company to clean your air ducts.

Use Enzymatic Cleaners

Enzymatic cleaners are specially made to remove pet odors. They're made from beneficial bacteria that eat stains and odors.

They’re formulated to get rid of a specific type of stain, so a cleanser that targets urine won’t be the same as one for vomit. Apply them liberally to stains regardless of how old they are.

Get Rid of Scratches

The toenails of pets leave recognizable marks on walls and doors. If your walls and doors are made of synthetic materials, you can just paint over the marks. To fill in scratches on wooden doors, use a wood-filling pen. Steel wool or fine sandpaper should be used to remove small scratches, followed by mineral spirits, wood filler, and polyurethane. Refinishing hardwood is a good investment when there is major damage.

Absorb Odors With Charcoal

Charcoal is great for pulling moisture and odors out of the air. Place inconspicuous little bags of it in places your pets love most. Or, just strategically stash some charcoal briquettes around the house.

Spot Clean Furniture Daily

Keeping your dog off the couch isn't always possible, so cover your freshly-cleaned furniture with throws or pet covers, and wash them at least once a week. Vacuum rugs and carpets every day. Pet smells sink in fast.

Get a Sniff Test

You’ve scrubbed everything, and you think your house smells like a dog has never set foot in the door. Get a second opinion as to whether the odors are gone. You may be nose-blind. Ask your agent to walk through and give you an honest opinion.

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

9905 DENALI Road NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111

PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP! Great opportunity to make this immaculate & lovingly cared for home your own! Situated in the highly desirable Far Northeast Heights Academy Hills subdivision, this gem will not disappoint. Featuring a light, bright open floorplan with impressive high-end finishes throughout. Main level includes an inviting great room appointed with a vaulted beamed ceiling; wood burning fireplace with blower & built-ins; French doors with side panels to invite in the natural light & opening to the view deck overlooking the backyard & Sandia Mountains. Wood floors grace the formal dining room & eat in kitchen with high-end appliances & fixtures; pot filler; separate coffee bar; enjoy the views from the large window next to the eat at bar; ample pantry & more.....

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.