Real Estate Information Archive

There are many summer camps for kids in Albuquerque, NM that offer fun and educational activities. Here are some of the best and most exciting & engaging in the area: 

Explora Science Center & Childrens Museum: This camp offers hands-on learning experiences in science, technology, engineering, art, and math. Kids can explore exhibits, conduct experiments, and create projects. The camp runs from June 5 to August 11 for kids ages 4 to 14.

Keshet Dance & Center for the Arts: This camp provides dance classes and workshops for kids of all ages and abilities. Kids can learn ballet, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, and more. The camp also includes arts and crafts, games, and field trips. The camp runs from June 5 to July 28 for kids ages 2 to 18.

Master Jim’s Taekwondo Academy: This camp teaches kids the martial art of taekwondo, as well as self-defense, discipline, and confidence. Kids can also enjoy games, crafts, movies, and snacks. The camp runs from June 5 to August 11 for kids ages 4 to 12.

Santa Fe Children’s Museum: This camp offers a variety of themes and activities for kids to explore their creativity and curiosity. Kids can enjoy gardening, cooking, art, science, music, and more. The camp runs from June 5 to August 11 for kids ages 3 to 10.

The McDermott Athletic Center: This camp offers sports and fitness programs for kids to stay active and healthy. Kids can participate in swimming, basketball, volleyball, soccer, tennis, and more. The camp also includes arts and crafts, games, and field trips. The camp runs from June 5 to August 11 for kids ages 5 to 12.

I hope this helps you find the best summer camp for your kids. Have a great summer! 😊

Have you checked out our Facebook page?  For great community information, real estate tips, Featured Listings, Open Houses and more...you'll find it all on our page! Be sure to Follow us too so you can stay current on all our posts! 

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

2115 LEAD AVENUE SE, ALBUQUERQUE, NM

Location, Location, Location! You don't want to miss this charmer close to UNM, restaurants, shopping and more. Beautifully maintained wood floors greet you in this light-filled beauty. Enjoy the open kitchen with lots of cabinet storage and gas cooktop. The home features 2 bedrooms plus a study and a freshly renovated bathroom. This oversized lot gives you tons of options and includes both a water feature and garage. Stucco was done in 2011 and all pipes and sewer line replaced in 2015. Come see today!

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Summertime fun gets better for Albuquerque family’s when spent at one of the top 25 amusement parks in the country…Cliff’s Amusement Park of Albuquerque! This wonderful treasure is located in the heart of Albuquerque and is famous for its attractions. Boasting a waterpark, wooden roller coaster, Kiddyland Galaxy, Rocky Mountain Rapids, Cliff Hanger, Sidewinder and so much more. You’ll also be treated to a variety of games such as the Vault Lazer Maze Challenge, Gravity Ball, Whac-A-Mole, Frog Fishing, and Walter Race.

Their kiddyland is perfect for the little ones. They’ll be giddy over the rides like Baja Buggy, Spin-O-Rama, and the Frog Hopper. Add to that a Carousel and Face Painting and you’ve got a day they’ll remember for years to come.

Planning your day is essential, so you’ll want to check out the great restaurants onsite. You can choose from Cabana Grill for a tasty southwestern treat, the All-American Grill for all your burger favorites, The Screamin’ Slice for fresh made pizza and for dessert choose from Dippin Dots, Kiddyland Café, Rocky Mountain Munchies for soft serve ice cream, and Cliff’s Funnel Cake Factory- YUM!

Cliff’s also caters to group events! Birthdays, youth groups, fundraisers and more. To get more information about Cliff’s and all the amazing possibilities follow this link.

Check back to our blog and Facebook page frequently for more great community highlights to pack your summer calendar and explore all that Albuquerque has to offer.

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

3 LA CANADA PLACE, SANDIA PARK, NM

Are you looking for spectacular, panoramic views with the privacy of just over 10 acres? Do you want a single-owner, single-story oasis? Then this is the home for you! Enter through the custom wooden gate to enjoy a sprawling 4-bedrooms with multiple living spaces and even a pull-down projector for all your entertaining needs. The oversized kitchen features a Sub-Zero fridge, double-oven and oversized pantry. Beautiful vigas and kiva, gas fireplaces make all spaces inviting. Enjoy the outdoors with long, covered patios and water feature while taking in the views. An expansive master suite features a private entrance with dual 3/4 baths and closets. Tons of upgrades: TPO Roof (2020), New Carpet (2023), Fresh Paint (2023), 9-zones of radiant heat, owned water-softener...

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This annual, 9-day event hosted by the National Institute of Flamenco and the University of New Mexico brings together the BEST flamenco artists in the world to our backyard. Flamenco is the beautiful, cultural art, song, dance, and history of Southern Spain that is incredibly vibrant and explores the full range of human emotion.

New Mexico is the heart of Flamenco in the United States and by producing the Festival Flamenco here in Albuquerque annually, they are preserving and promoting this amazing artistry, while also nourishing and building it for future generations.

This year’s festival, as in years past will include a vast array of performances as well as dance and music workshops, and youth programs.

Delve into the incredible history and beauty of the flamenco culture and experience the beauty and sounds of Southern Spain at any of these performances. Or, sign up for one of the workshops and learn the dances. Offered for both beginner or intermediate levels, you’ll be delighted at every turn.

To learn more about the festival, performance line-up and venues, and workshops offered, please visit here.

Don’t you just LOVE our Albuquerque community?!  The summer has just begun and so much more will be taking place. Be sure to check back weekly for more great events to participate in.

Remember, our website and Facebook page also offer wonderful real estate insights and market updates to keep you ‘in the know’ for when you’re ready to List your Home or Purchase your Dream Home.

We’re here to help, so give us a call today.

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

8012 ALTO REY COURT NW, ALBUQUERQUE, NM

Beautiful 2023 Pulte home in the desired Petroglyph Estates subdivision is move-in ready! NO PID or HOA. When you walk-in you will be greeted by a large open and bright home with vaulted ceilings. Directly on the right, there's a large office space, second living area or additional bedroom, it's a great space for those who work from home! This 4 bd,3.5 ba has an open kitchen great for entertaining with tasteful and clean looking quartz counter tops, a gourmet kitchen with plenty of cabinetry and a large pantry. Formal contemporary dining room has plenty of space for guests. The master suite is tastefully situated with a sitting area - the master shower has a glass enclosure with a large garden tub and a walk-in closet. This home comes equipped with several builder upgrades.

GET YOUR MORNING INSPIRATION WITH THE SANDI PRESSLEY TEAM!

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

Human Medications

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

Some types of medications to keep away from pets include:

• Cancer medicines

• Antidepressants

• Diet pills

• Cold medications

• Supplements, such as vitamins

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

Chemicals

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

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

Human Food

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

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

Other Hazards

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

What to Do If Your Pets Are Poisoned

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

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

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

4601 Rio Grande Lane NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107

Phenomenal private North Valley oasis located on one of the most coveted streets in Los Ranchos. Entering this magnificent property will take your breath away. Single level. Elegantly and completely renovated in 2018. The entire home encompasses high end finishes, impeccably done with exquisite taste. Two very large living areas, options for formal and casual dining, tremendous windows with exclusive custom drapery. Kahrs white oak wood floors. Chef's kitchen with massive island, custom cabinetry, quartz counter tops and high end appliances. Each bedroom has its own bath and walk-in closet. Separate office with gorgeous builtins. Grounds are simply stunning. The property is gated and fully fenced. Mature trees, fruit and nut bearing, beautiful grass.

Learn More!

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

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

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

What Is a Solar Powered Generator?

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

How Does a Solar Generator Function?

A solar generator consists of four main parts:

• Solar charge controller

• Solar panels

• Battery

• Inverter

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

Pros of Purchasing a Solar Generator

Noiseless and Easy Maintenance 

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

Renewable and Clean Source of Energy 

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

Free Energy

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

Cons of Purchasing a Solar Generator

Slow Recharge

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

High Initial Cost

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

Restricted Power Supply 

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

What Are Solar Generators Commonly Used For?

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

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

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

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

124 PAA KO Drive, Sandia Park, NM 87047

Welcome home to the Paa-ko lifestyle with this next-to-new custom home! Less than 3 years old, this gem has all the bells & whistles. Featuring high-end finishes like engineered oak floors, quartz counters, custom solid doors and cabinets, this one needs to be seen to be believed. Enter through the custom solar, iron gate and appreciate the fully paved driveway with extra parking pads and a 3-car, oversized garage complete with epoxy floors. Completely landscaped, the exterior has both drip & sprinkler irrigation, room for all your toys, gutters, plus over 300sqft of covered outdoor space to enjoy the unparalleled views. 

Learn More!

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

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Do you want to plant a garden, but don't think you can becasue you live in an urban area in Albuquerque? Why not look into the growing trend of urban gardening?

There are two broad definitions of urban gardening. A community garden might be the first option. In urban areas, many nonprofits and neighborhood organizations will launch community gardens where people can grow their own food and share the produce.

For our purposes, we're discussing container gardening. Even a small garden is beneficial for urban residents, such as those living in smaller homes or townhomes in Albuquerque. Growing vegetables, herbs, and other plants is a great way to get fresh air, as well as getting fresh produce. A sense of accomplishment can also come from container gardening, which is good for your mental health.

Starting out, you should know the following.

Available Space

You'll need some space for a container garden if you live in an urban area in Albuquerque.

Several options are available to you.

Some condos and townhouses have in-ground outdoor spaces. Ensure that you can plant a small garden with your board or HOA.

You can also use flower pots or hanging baskets, which are portable, so you can put them on a balcony or patio, and if necessary, move them inside.

Hydroponic gardening is another trendy trend for urban dwellers right now. Self-fertilizing stands and self-watering stands are offered by some creative companies, so you can grow your own food. You will need to add water and nutrients to the reservoir weekly if you choose this option. In addition, you'll need to keep the pH at a suitable level. The gardens go upward rather than out, so you save valuable floor space, which can be crucial in limited spaces.

Decide What You’ll Grow

There are some things that are better suited to container and urban gardening than others. For example, herbs are great, like mint, basil and sage.

Containers are also suitable for lettuce and tomatoes of different types.

With a hydroponic gardening kit, you can often find pre-sprouted seedlings that include cucumbers, eggplants, and even strawberries. Peppers such as bell peppers, jalapenos, and habaneros do well in limited spaces. Squash and zucchini are suitable for balcony gardens, but don't overplant them because they can end up producing pounds of vegetables. You might like the look of cumbers and vines that grow around your balcony as they spread.

Don't plant too many plants in one container if you're not using a hydroponic kit. You may stunt your plants' growth if you plant too much. Three to four plants can usually be accommodated in a pot that's 10-12 inches wide. A pot with a diameter of 14 to 16 inches can hold five to seven plants, and a pot with a diameter of 16 to 20 inches can hold six to nine.

You want to make sure each of the plants you choose will be a good neighbor to the others when you're choosing what to grow. Some plants will suffer if you combine them in the same pot with plants that require different amounts of sunlight.

Drainage

Drill drainage holes if your potted plants do not already have them if you're growing them in pots. To catch the excess drainage water, you'll also need to place something below the container.

Light

Finally, you'll need to consider sunlight when planning an urban or container garden. Herbs and fruiting vegetables especially need between 7 and 12 hours of sunlight a day. It might be better to grow something that tolerates shade, like spinach or chard, if you can't get that much light.

You should carefully read the seed packets or tags, and keep them in case you need to refer back to them later. A plant that says it needs full sun needs between 6 and 8 hours of sun daily. A plant with partial sun gets between 4 and 6 hours of sun each day, while one with shade receives filtered sunlight the rest of the time.

If you’re going to move your containers inside during the winter, you can use plant grow lights, which simulate the effects of the sun and are excellent in an urban environment.

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

62 Calle Monte Aplanado NWAlbuquerque, NM 87120

Everyone wants to renovate their homes. People in Albuquerque are now more inclined to do things themselves than ever before. All the remodeling is great for the economy, as well as for people's home equity. However, if homeowners take on tasks themselves without adequate training, problems can arise. It's easy to keep renovations on track if you know what to look out for.

Overestimating your skill

It looks easy to tile, doesn't it? It would be great if the whole bathroom was done, including the floors and walls. You don't need to take a class to do this, or even watch a few YouTube tutorials. You've seen it done on TV, and you're pretty good at picking things up, aren't you? That's a recipe for disaster, and, chances are, you'll either be calling a professional to come finish what you started, or to rip it out and start over.

How to avoid mistakes:

Start small. Prior to taking on the tough stuff, test your skills and patience.

Underestimating your budget

Nobody ever saves enough money for their renovations. There seems to be an increased likelihood of issues arising when your budget is tighter. The last thing you want is a problem that changes your entire plan last minute or makes you stop mid-renovation to make alternate plans or find more money.

How to avoid it:

A good rule of thumb is to set your budget amount and then add 20 percent, but the more novice you are, the more you may want to add.

Minimizing the timeline

Many Albuquerque homeowners underestimate the amount of time needed to make their own renovations. Most of the time, this is due to inexperience, but individual needs can also play a part in it. Just because you only have two weekends to completely tear down and renovate your kitchen before your in-laws arrive doesn't mean it's going to happen within that timeframe. Rather than a pretty finish, they're likely to find a mess and no functional kitchen to prepare a meal.

How to avoid it:

Make sure you do your research. Take the advice of professionals. Take a look at some blogs written by homeowners who have already done the DIY kitchen renovation thing and see what they have to say. Rather than dismissing them as amateurs, really listen to what they have to say. Learn from the mistakes and experiences of others so you can approach your renovation with an open mind and open eyes.

Swinging the hammer without a plan

Seeing demos on TV is fun, and they can be enjoyable as well. When you don't know what you're swinging at and have no plan for what you're going to do if an unexpected event occurs, it can be seriously damaging to your property.

"Work on older buildings can yield a lot of unforeseen events," said Architectural Digest. "Who knows what's behind that wall you're opening up? New construction is more controlled, but that doesn't always mean smooth sailing. Be prepared for the unexpected. We all hope and pray everything goes according to plan. Trust us: Nothing will."

How to avoid it:

The best way to ensure you don't do something crazy, such as compromising the entire structure of your home, is to hire a structural engineer to tell you exactly what's going on in the wall you want to take down.

Not asking for help

It's great to be independent, but when it comes to renovating, more is better. When you have suspicions, you need someone to confirm them, help with the heavy lifting, and provide feedback.

How to avoid it:

Get in touch with your friends, family, or that coworker who's self-proclaimed Queen of Reno. At the very least, having another person in the room will make the renovation go faster and give you someone else to talk to.

The best thing to keep in mind with renovations is that they are hard work and take time and planning. Dont go it alone, unless you've done them befor eand know what you're doing.

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

There is a range of emotions that can arise from inheriting a house. Perhaps you feel sad because you have lost someone close to you. Knowing what to do next and the financial impact can also be overwhelming. A house is also a very valuable asset, so it can be exciting as well.

How should you proceed if you inherit a house in Albuquerque?

In this situation, you essentially have three options. Sell it, move into it, or rent it.

Concepts to Consider

You will first need to consider your legal and financial obligations when inheriting a house. A loan, for example, might be owed. Inheriting property may also incur tax responsibilities, such as capital gains and federal estate taxes.

It's not a federal inheritance tax if you inherit a home, but some states have them. In most situations, inheriting property does not automatically result in a tax liability.

An asset, such as a house, can generate capital gains taxes. If you sell the house, you may have to pay capital gains taxes. There are tax implications when a home's fair market value is less than its sale price when it is inherited.

You may be eligible for an exclusion if you keep the home.

Is There Currently a Mortgage?

Having a house that's already paid for means fewer financial considerations.

A property with an open mortgage can be assumed, which means you take over the payments as an heir and pay off the debt based on the original terms of the mortgage.

Reverse mortgages and some other loans become due at the time of the borrower's death or the sale of the property. In such a case, as the heir, you would be required to sell the home and settle the remaining debt if a reverse mortgage is open.

Did You Inherit a House with Your Siblings?

Having several siblings or family members inherit the same house is common and complicating. Therefore, multiple opinions could play a role in the decision on what to do with the property.

A buyout may be an option if there are multiple stakeholders. For whatever reason, one sibling can purchase the other sibling's home if they want to keep the house.

The simplest thing to do is to sell the home and split the profit. The home can also be rented out and the profits split.

You may need to file a lawsuit for partition if you cannot agree on what to do. In this case, the court will order the sale of the home. Due to the legal fees and time involved, you'll receive less than you would have without this step.

Can You Move into the House?

You might want to move into an inherited home if there are no complicating factors or if the people who share ownership agree to it. Again, if there is an outstanding mortgage, you'll need to determine whether or not taking on that debt makes financial sense.

Not only do you have to consider the mortgage payment, but property taxes as well as any other costs associated with owning a home.

Selling your current home and moving in without taking on debt may be possible if you have no obligations.

In order to sell the home you inherited, you have to pay for any needed repairs as well as real estate agent fees and closing costs.

Again, if you fall into a particular tax bracket, you'll have to pay capital gains on the difference between the fair market value of the property when you inherited it and what you sold it for.

When inheriting a home, many things come into play, from whether or not the home is currently debt-free to how many people share it with you. Make sure you research all financial implications before making any decisions.

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

The holiday season is rounding out for 2021. Its been a very special season for many Albuquerque residents. Let's keep it that way. Will you be traveling over the upcoming holidays? If so, there are some safety steps you should take.

TAKING TO THE HIGHWAY

1. Make sure your car is in good condition for a road trip.
2. Pack an emergency preparedness kit, supplies and a first aid kit in your vehicle.
3. Share travel plans with a family member or friend.
4. Check the weather before departing and along your route. Plan for travel around any storms that may be coming.
5. Be well rested and alert.
6. Buckle up, slow down and don’t drive impaired.
7. Follow the rules of the road and use caution in work zones.
8. Give your full attention to the road. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.
9. Make frequent stops. During long trips, rotate drivers. If you’re too tired to drive, stop and get some rest.
10. If you have car trouble, pull off the road as far as possible.

COVID-19 AND PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

1. Face masks are mandatory for everyone while using public transportation. This requirement is extended in the U.S. through March 18, 2022. Those who are exempt include children under age 2, someone whose disability prevents them from safely wearing a mask, or someone for whom a mask may create a risk to their workplace safety.
2. Plan ahead. Check the current coronavirus situation at your destination and follow all restrictions in that area. You can find that information here.
3. If traveling by air, check if the airline requires any testing, vaccination or other documents.
4. Don’t travel if you are sick, have been exposed to COVID-19, tested positive for the virus, or are waiting for your test results. More information is available here.
5. If you are traveling internationally, you need to get a COVID-19 viral test no more than 24 hours before you fly into the U.S., whether you are vaccinated and regardless of your citizenship status. Full information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention can be found here COVID-19 travel recommendations by destination are available here.

Have a Safe and Happy Holiday Season!

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

4100 SKYVIEW CREST Road NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114

Price reflects $248,000 in upgrades in the past 7 months! Seller has invested in upgrading & improving this home with the best of the best. This property is exclusive and exquisite. Upgrades include: New (TPO ROOF) 50 year industrial grade 80mil TPO Carlise Syntec roof system. New (PAID SOLAR) 30 year low profile solar array not visible from ground level provides enough energy to waive off future energy bills -- $4000 to $5000 annual savings. New (SWIM SPA) premier Marque aquatic training vessel for endless swimming with a number of other aquatic fitness features. New (HOT TUB) premier Marque seven seat therapeutic spa. See MLS Features & Updates List for a full list of many more updates. 3 minutes from Intel & easy access to shopping, restaurants, schools, and major thoroughfares.

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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.

Mortgage rates under 3% are certainly appealing. But can you actually get one? The best rates might not be available to you if you don't have excellent credit. Still, you may be able to refinance your Albuquerque house if you qualify.

Minimum credit score

You will have more refinance options if your score is above 700. Although, contrary to popular belief, you can still qualify with a lower credit score.

“Credit requirements vary by lender and type of mortgage. In general, you'll need a credit score of 620 or higher for a conventional mortgage refinance,” said Experian. “Certain government programs require a credit score of 580, however, or have no minimum at all. As is true for other types of loans, the higher your credit score, the more likely a mortgage refinance lender will be to work with you. Not only are your chances of approval higher, but you'll typically receive a lower interest rate and more favorable loan terms than qualifying borrowers with lower scores.”

Going with a higher rate

In the long run, any rate drop will save you money, even if you are not eligible for the lowest rate. A .25 reduction in your mortgage rate will save you almost $100 a month. The savings will, of course, need to be weighed against your refi costs and the time it will take to recover those costs.

Buying down your rate

If you don’t qualify for the lowest rate and you want to go lower, you can buy down the rate. “Mortgage points are one way for homeowners to lower their interest rate,” said Bankrate. “When you pay for points on a mortgage, you are actually paying interest right now for the loan. In return, the homeowner can lock in a lower and discounted rate. The rate depends on how many points are purchased. Your mortgage rate will drop more if you purchase more points.”

One point is the same as a .25% discount in the mortgage rate, which will cost you 1% of the total mortgage amount. To lower your mortgage rate by a quarter point would cost you $3,000 on a $300,000 mortgage. “Homeowners can buy more than one point, depending on their financial situation.”

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

508 ORTEGA Road NW, Los Ranchos, NM 87114

Plenty of room for your HORSES & HORSE POWER! Gorgeous approx 1.26 acre NV Village of Los Ranchos Horse Property. One of a kind, rare opportunity to own private gated valuable Sub-dividable lot. 4BD/3.5 BA renovated 2015 w/hardwood oak floors, 2015 roof, HVAC, HWH, windows, insulation, refrigerated air/heat throughout home. 1000sf grand sunroom w/ tile setting the stage for peace & relaxation. Recessed Lighting & Skylights! New SS appl! This home shines like a diamond! Not incl in TSF Finished 1979sqft heated/cooled 6 Car Tandem Garage/Shop w/220! The possibilities are truly endless.1100sf Horse barn, plus storage, 2 patios, circular drive w/50+ trees & fenced lawn.1 mile to Alameda Open Space, trails & Rio Grande River, & 15 mins to Airport. Perfect for entertaining. RV parking/NO HOA!

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.