Real Estate Information Archive

Kitchen remodels are a costly yet popular project among Albuquerque homeowners. With the ongoing pandemic forcing people to spend more time at home, many are considering remodeling their kitchens. To save money, some homeowners opt for the IKEA kitchen route. While it can save thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars, it's important to know certain things about an IKEA kitchen before making a decision.

Designing an IKEA Kitchen

Designing an IKEA kitchen can be challenging, especially if you don't live near a store location. Fortunately, there is an online planning tool available for those who plan to get their kitchen shipped. While going to a store location can simplify the process and help you avoid potential mistakes, the online planning tool can be a helpful alternative.

An IKEA kitchen is designed to be budget-friendly and easy to assemble, much like their furniture. The items are packed and shipped in a way that allows for self-assembly without the need for a contractor. When planning and using the design planner, it is crucial to remember to measure accurately and double-check your measurements.

When planning your kitchen layout, it is important to consider the location of outlets, window openings, and door swings. These factors will impact the placement of appliances and cabinets. After taking measurements, you can then begin to plan out the zones of your kitchen and how everything will flow. Proper planning will ensure a functional and efficient kitchen space.

Are the Cabinets High-Quality?

Custom cabinets can be very expensive, but IKEA cabinets offer a more affordable option. However, it's important to note that IKEA cabinets are made from particleboard and covered in laminate, which may not be preferred by those who prefer solid wood.

Additionally, since IKEA cabinets don't come in custom sizes, a filler piece may be necessary for odd spaces. The 3D planner tool offered by IKEA is a helpful tool for planning your kitchen, as it allows you to visualize how the puzzle pieces of your cabinets will fit together.

When it comes to cabinets, there are a variety of features available to enhance their functionality. Internal organizers can be added to help with organization, while drawer dampeners offer a soft close. Base cabinets are located beneath the counter and come in two depths, with the standard depth being 24 inches. Wall cabinets are installed above the countertops and typically have a depth of 15 inches.

If you want additional storage, which is somewhat like a free-standing pantry, there are tall cabinets. They sit on the floor and are available in two heights—80 or 90 inches.

You can decide between exposed legs and toe kicks for your base cabinets.

What About the Countertop?

While IKEA does offer countertops, it's important to note that their options are limited to laminate or veneer. If you're looking for a wider variety of materials or styles, it may be beneficial to explore other retailers.

Putting it Together

When your IKEA kitchen arrives, you will need to assemble the different pieces and components yourself or hire a contractor. It is recommended that you have your kitchen delivered instead of picking it up. If you have a larger kitchen, you may receive more than 100 boxes.

It is crucial to correctly install all components of your IKEA kitchen to ensure its durability and quality. Proper installation requires putting everything together accurately. If you lack the necessary skills, it is advisable to seek assistance to avoid any mistakes.

If you have an unusual kitchen layout and don't intend to remodel it, your options for an IKEA kitchen may be limited. This is because IKEA kitchens are modular and not easily customizable. The best option for an IKEA kitchen is a straight-line layout.

Whether or not an IKEA kitchen is worth the cost savings depends on your preferences, the layout of your kitchen, how handy you are, and what your budget is.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Learn More!

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

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

As the days get longer and the weather warms up in Albuquerque, it's the perfect time to get outdoors and start tackling some bigger home projects. With the threat of winter storms now gone, it's a great opportunity to look for any damage that may have occurred and make any necessary repairs. Additionally, it's a good idea to get your home and garden prepped and ready for the summer months ahead.

Here are some useful tips on what to look out for this spring, from ensuring proper irrigation to keeping an eye out for pesky mosquitoes and termites.

Clean Gutters and Downspouts

After the last frost has passed, it is essential to have your gutters and downspouts cleaned and repaired. Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause the wood trim at the eaves to rot, leading to a variety of critters entering your attic.

Getting your gutters and downspouts cleaned early in the season can help prevent any damage from spring rains. It is important that gutters and downspouts are clean and running freely. If the downspouts are installed correctly, water is diverted away from the house so that no water is collected around the foundation.

Reseal Exterior Woodwork

Wood decks, fences, railings, trellises, pergolas, and other outdoor structures should be stained or resealed every year or two in order to help them last longer and stay in better condition. This is also a great opportunity to make any needed repairs to woodwork, such as replacing broken boards or filling in gaps. Taking the time to maintain your outdoor structures can help them last for many years.

Check for Signs of Termites

Beginning in March and going through May or June, it is important to be on the lookout for termites. These winged insects will swarm in the spring, and if you see a bunch of them flying out of a hole in the woodwork, it is likely termites. To ensure the problem is taken care of properly, it is best to call a licensed professional pest control company. Doing this will save you money and trouble in the long run.

Inspect the Roof

Winter storms can cause significant damage to roofs, so it is important to inspect your roof when spring arrives. You don't need to climb on the roof to do this; you can use binoculars, a camera, or a smartphone with a telephoto feature. Look for missing shingles, damaged or missing metal pipes, or anything that looks out of place. If you notice any issues that require closer inspection or repair, it is best to call a roofer.

Paint the Exterior

If you're planning to repaint your home's exterior this year, spring is an ideal time to get started. Choosing a color for your home can be daunting, but there are a few options to explore. You can take a walk around your town and snap pictures of house colors you like, browse photos on Houzz, or work with a color consultant to find the perfect hue. With a little bit of research, you can find the perfect color for your home.

Inspect Driveways and Paths

Freezing and thawing can cause a lot of damage to hardscaping materials such as concrete and asphalt. It is important to inspect your property regularly for any damage to walkways, paths, and driveways. If repairs are needed, asphalt can often be patched, but if the damage is more severe, concrete may need to be replaced entirely. Scheduling repairs as soon as possible is important to prevent further damage from occurring.

Check Sprinkler and Irrigation Systems

Checking your sprinklers or irrigation systems in the spring can save water – and save your plants. Sedinger shares these tips for checking your watering system:

• Run the system through all the zones manually and walk the property.
• Make sure none of the heads are broken or damaged.
• Adjust any heads that are spraying the house, especially windows, as this can cause moisture problems.
• Adjust heads that are spraying the street, sidewalk, or porches to avoid wasting water.
• If you don’t know how to maintain your sprinkler system, call a professional to do it. You’ll save money on your water bill and protect one of our most valuable natural resources.

Check Screen Doors and Windows

Screens are an essential part of keeping your home cool and comfortable during the summer months. Not only do they allow fresh air to flow in, but they also prevent bugs from entering your home. However, in order for screens to be effective, they must be free from any holes or tears. Before the warm weather arrives, it is important to inspect each screen and repair any damage, no matter how small.

Fortunately, screen repair kits can be found at many hardware and home improvement stores. With a little bit of effort, you can ensure that your screens are in top condition and ready for the summer.

Schedule Air-conditioning Service

Home maintenance is an important part of keeping your air conditioning system running efficiently. Many home inspectors see air conditioning systems that have not been adequately maintained, leading to shorter lifespans and less efficient cooling. To ensure your system runs optimally, it is important to change the filters at least once each season and to have a licensed professional service the equipment before the start of summer. Taking these steps can help extend the life of your air conditioning system and ensure it runs efficiently.

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

Are you looking to add value to your home? One of the best ways to do this is by making smart home improvements. From energy-efficient appliances to smart home automation systems, there are plenty of ways to upgrade and enhance your home without breaking the bank.

Home improvement projects are a great option for Albuquerque home owners who want to add value to their property. Not only do smart home improvements increase the value of your home, but they can also save you money in the long run. Every penny saved from replacing an old appliance or installing efficient solar paneling can help you out in the long run. Furthermore, an aesthetically pleasing renovation such as adding a room or finishing the basement or attic can draw potential buyers in, adding to the value of your home.

In this blog, we’ll look at smart home improvements that you can make to add value to your home. 

Benefits of Making Smart Home Improvements

Making smart home improvements can have a number of benefits, especially when it comes to making a home more energy efficient. For example, replacing old window frames with new insulated windows can help reduce heating and cooling costs over time.

Additionally, ceiling fans and more efficient lighting options can also help to reduce energy costs.

Homeowners in Albuquerque can also benefit from installing low-flow toilet fixtures, energy-efficient appliances, and even solar energy systems if their budget allows. Taking the time to find ways to make home improvements that are also energy efficient can be well worth the effort in the long run.

Aside from the energy savings, smart home improvements can also help increase the value of a home which can lead to a higher return on investment when it comes time to sell. Installing modern appliances or adding a deck or patio are just two of the ways homeowners can add value to their properties.

Again, renovating a home is not only a great way to save energy and reduce bills, but it can also be a great investment for when it comes time to sell. Home improvement projects, such as adding a deck or upgrading appliances, can help increase the value of the property. By taking the time now to make smart home improvements, Albuquerque homeowners can benefit from more money in their pockets down the road.

How to Add Value to Your Home Through Smart Improvements

One way to add value to your home is to make smart improvements that you can do yourself or hire someone to do, such as replacing old appliances with energy-efficient ones, adding a room or finishing the basement or attic, and installing solar panels.

Another way to add value to your home is to update it with features that appeal to potential buyers, such as remodeling the kitchen and bathrooms, adding a deck or patio for outdoor living space, and making sure the exterior looks clean and inviting.

Home improvements in Albuquerque can be costly, but they are worth the investment in the long run. Not only will potential buyers be attracted to your home, but you can also enjoy a greater level of comfort with updated features. Consider consulting a local expert for advice on the best ways to make improvements that will increase the value of your home. With the right guidance, your home can become a desirable property that stands out in the market.

Finally, consider making improvements that will improve the home’s performance and appeal, such as improving its insulation and air sealing, upgrading the windows and doors, and replacing aging plumbing fixtures. These investments will pay off in the long run with lower utility bills and higher property values.

In conclusion, making smart home improvements can add significant value to your home. From energy-efficient appliances to smart home automation systems, there are plenty of projects that you can undertake yourself or hire a professional to handle. So don’t hesitate—start planning your next smart home improvement project today.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

45 BROKEN ARROW Place, Sandia Park, NM 87047

Luxurious Custom Home located on a private gated street in the prestigious Paako Ridge Community, situated next to the fairway of hole #1 of the world class Paako Ridge Golf course! Approximately 300K has been invested by current owners in the surrounding environmentally friendly & efficient landscaping that boasts low voltage lighting, stone fountain, drought tolerant trees, shrubs and perennials. Environmentally constructed for optimum energy efficiency, with thoughtful architectural & designer details throughout, this exquisite home will impress the most discerning buyer! Upon entry, the open & bright great room offers a dramatic raised coffered ceiling, custom tile floors, double sided gas log fireplace, & awe-inspiring views of veranda & garden through the windows & French doors.

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

Are you planning to put your Albuquerque house on the market soon? If so, it is essential to figure out how to boost its value. Fortunately, there are many ways that can help you do this - from a fresh coating of paint or new windows to a full-on renovation.

Let's take a look at some of the best and trendiest ways to increase home value.

Update the Interior

For individuals looking to upgrade their home, interior design is usually the first thought that comes to mind.   Appreciated amenities,   energy efficient appliances and creative   designs have the potential to   change a room's overall appeal without having to spend too much money on a whole remodel. And there's no limit to how   creative you can get with your updates! 

Want to make your home more visually appealing? Adding some simple touches like repainting your cabinets and swapping out old light fixtures can instantly give it a more modern look. You can also ask help from an interior designer, your realtor, or even the internet for some inspiration. 

Exterior & Landscaping

Homebuyers have certain expectations when they visit your listing. Is the house inviting? Does the yard look well-maintained? Walkways should be clear of debris.

Many people will not buy a house if the outside and surrounding property look like it will need expensive repair. Remember to take extra consideration for often overlooked aspects of your lawn. There are easy and inexpensive ways to do so, such as:

• Mend wood rot
• No bare grass spots
• Fix any peeling paint
• Add mulch where necessary
• Fix any cracks in the concrete
• Clear your gutters of any debris
• Ensure your front door is in good shape
• No dead, wilted, or dry plants, shrubs, or trees
• Clean the windows inside and out and ensure no screens or blinds are damaged

Ensuring all of these are in good standing will quickly add to the curb appeal of your home.

Make Your Home Energy Efficient

The new energy-efficient appliances will make your home more appealing, because buyers are looking for a home that is environmentally friendly. This can be an added plus, if the house is put on the market or if you live in the home and want to increase its value. 

Energy-efficient windows, doors, and lighting are not only a great way to reduce their carbon footprint and save money, but these energy-efficient building materials and fixtures could also lead to tax breaks. 

Thanks to advances in technology, there are many eco-friendly, energy-efficient options available to you. You can find smart technology, Energy-Star rated appliances, and thermally-broken steel-based doors and windows. Whether you prefer contemporary or more traditional rustic-style homes, there's a solution for you. 

Install New Windows & Doors

Customizing your windows and doors is one of the most effective ways to raise the value of your home. When home buyers look at houses, they pay close attention to how upgraded the doors and windows are. 

Not only are there energy-efficient options to choose from—there are also plenty of stylish colors and fashionable designs to choose from, so there's sure to be something that fits your unique aesthetic perfectly. 

Are you looking for traditional or modern-looking windows and doors that will provide your home with character and a fresh, new look? 

When choosing new doors and windows, keep in mind the dessert climate you live in. Aim to buy windows and doors that hold in warm and cool air accordingly so that you don't end up paying more on energy bills.

Update Your Kitchen & Bathroom

A common project for a home remodeling project is to change the kitchen or bathroom. There are so many things that you can do to add value to these rooms! Installing smart home technology and devices, re-doing a shower or bathtub, or even just a new countertop or backsplash plus a bit of paint goes a long way too. When you want to add value to your home, there’s no shortage of ideas or options! 

If you're thinking of fixing up your home to put it on the market, check what's trending. Get an idea of what might increase a home's value. Then, once you've finished renovating, you can improve the right features and try to make a much nicer profit once you do find a buyer. 

New bathrooms and kitchens, however, are only as good as the pipes that support them. If a home has a lot of old pipes and plumbing, it might be worth updating or replacing them with newer versions. Unfortunately, there's no way around it: Buyers do look at these things. So if it's not up to standard, it can be difficult to find a buyer. 

Focus on Maintenance and Repairs

If your plumbing isn't up to date, you could be facing problems with your home. Plus, no one wants to deal with broken pipes while you're trying to sell! If there are repairs to be made, do it before you put your home on the market. 

Whether you intend to sell the home or not, keeping up with routine preventative maintenance and fix all problems you know already exist helps ensure that the home is in its best possible condition and will attract the most number of buyers. Keep a record of all repairs, installations, and any service done to any part of the house so that you have answers and proof ready for any potential buyer's questions. 

Old houses always come with hidden problems and issues. By getting a Home Inspector in to thoroughly check the house, you'll be saving yourself a lot of headaches and potential costs long term. Regular maintenance and upkeep on a house also saves you money in the long run. 

There are so many ways to increase home value. Just make sure you communicate with your realtor if you're selling the house and research what's trending in the market and with home buyers. Then, find the best ones for your budget and aesthetic goals, and you'll sell the house in no time at all.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

** $10,000 incentive for points buydown, closing costs or to use on carpet/paint.** This home boasts 5 bedrooms, 4 baths and a spacious 3 car garage! This wonderful corner lot home in the Celebracion at Fiesta Subdivision has 2 living areas and an open concept, perfect for entertaining! Great location close to restaurants, stores and the freeway. There is much to see with this fabulous home, come and look for yourself!

Learn More!

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

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Being a new homeowner in Albuquerque is quite a learning experience. No matter what the project you try to tackle, it seems like there's always something that will catch you by surprise.

Yet if you have the right items handy, then you can be better prepared for any scenario. By stocking your home with these following items, you'll be ready for any new challenge as a new homeowner.

Wet-Dry Vacuum

You’re gonna be spilling stuff. Look for a wet-dry vacuum that can handle everything from paint to nails and small stones.

(The Right) Fire Extinguisher

Most people don't realize there are more than one type if fire extinguisher. In fact, there are five different types of fire extinguishers with different uses, from extinguishing cooking oils to wood and paper. Check the U.S. Fire Administration’s guide to make sure you get the right one for your home.

A small coloured band indicates the type of fire extinguisher – red for water, white and red for water mist, cream colour for foam, blue for dry powder, yellow coded extinguishers are used for wet chemical, green for clean agent and black for CO2 extinguishers.

Extension Cord Organizer

No one likes to deal with tangled cords, especially extension cords. You can save yourself time and hassle with cord management devices. You can also make your own with a pegboard, hooks, and velcro straps to keep each cord loop secure.

Either way, your cords will be knot-free and easy to find. And be sure to include a heavy-duty extension cord in your organizer that’s outdoor-worthy. You don’t want to really have to use that fire extinguisher.

Big-Kid Tools

Odds are you already own a bunch of the basics: drill, screwdriver, hammer, level, tape measure, wrench, pliers, staple gun, utility knife, etc. But home ownership may require a few new ones you might not have needed before, including a:

• Stud finder. You can make as many holes in the walls as you want now. Use the stud finder to figure out where to hang those heavy shelves so they’re safely anchored.
• Hand saw. Much easier (and cheaper!) than a power saw, you can get a good cross-cut saw for smooth edges on small DIY projects.
• Ratchet set. Every bolt in your new house belongs to you, so you’d better be able to loosen and tighten them when needed. Crank that ratchet to get to spots where you can’t turn a wrench all the way around. Great for when you’re stuck in a corner.
• Pry bar. Get one with a clawed end to pull nails and a flat end to separate drywall, remove trim or molding, and separate tile.

Tool Kit

You’ll need something to carry all those tools around from project to project. Create a tool carrier using a tool bucket liner and an old 5-gallon bucket. Or invest in a handyman belt filled with the basics to keep on hand in the kitchen.

Confidence

With a little self-confidence — and some YouTube tutorials — there’s (almost) no DIY project you can’t master.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

5208 RUSSELL Drive NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114

Location + Serenity = 5208 Russell Dr. Welcome home to this updated gem in Paradise Hills. Situated on an oversized lot, enjoy a wealth of perks in this 4-bedroom, comfortable home. NEW Champion Windows (2022), NEW Fireplace High-Efficiency Wood Stove insert (2021), almost new kitchen appliances (2019) including Gas Range, Refrigerator, Dishwasher and Disposal, Mastercool (2016) AND NEWER Stucco & Roof (2016). Get ready for the holidays with room for everyone in the open, updated kitchen with oversized pantry and access to TWO living areas. And then check out the backyard!!

Learn More! 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

A renovation involves improving the appearance or functionality of a house. You can do it to repair damage caused by weather, natural disasters, or for aesthetic reasons. Whether you are planning on doing some major renovations like flooring or just simple repairs around your home, here are six things to keep in mind when undertaking a home renovation project:

Safety First

Renovation projects should be undertaken with safety in mind. There are many heavy materials and tools involved in this project. Therefore, you should make sure that you have enough space around your workspace so that you can move around quickly. Be sure to unplug all electrical appliances before starting work. Wear gloves and goggles when handling chemicals or using power tools. 

Plan Ahead of Time

A plan is the best way to ensure your renovation project runs smoothly. As such, you should take the time to create a detailed plan for each room of your home. This will help you avoid making costly mistakes and prevent frustration. In addition to having a plan, you must take time when renovating your home. This may seem like an obvious tip, but rushing through a project is one of the easiest ways to make mistakes and end up with a subpar result.

Hire a Professional Contractor

Despite the temptation to save money by doing the work yourself, this is one of the worst mistakes homeowners can make. Hiring a professional contractor will help ensure that your renovation project is completed with high-quality materials and craftsmanship. In addition, having a professional on hand means that you don’t have to worry about whether or not your home will be structurally sound after renovations.

Always Have a Backup Plan

Despite your best efforts, things will go wrong during a renovation project. A backup plan keeps your home safe and livable in case of an unexpected plumbing leak or an absent contractor. Maintaining a backup plan will help you avoid costly delays to your renovation project. In case your contractor fails, it's essential to have a backup plan. If you don’t, you could pay for substandard or even dangerous work to your home.

Make Sure You Meet Your Homeowner’s Insurance Requirements

Your home insurance policy may have specific requirements for the types of contractors you use and how much they are paid. You should check with your insurer to ensure that the contract meets their standards before it’s signed. If not, they might refuse to pay for any damage caused by the contractor or even deny coverage altogether.

Never Skimp on Materials

It makes sense to install the best materials in your home if you spend money on a contractor. This could result in a shoddy product that needs to be repaired or replaced sooner than expected. Ensure that the materials come with a warranty. After a contractor finishes a project, you may have to pay for repairs yourself if poor-quality products were used.

Renovating your Albuquerque home can be fun if you do it right. Success is planning, researching, and hiring a good contractor. If you do those things, you’ll be able to enjoy your home for years.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

324 PLAZA MUCHOMAS, Bernalillo, NM 87004

Welcome home to this prestigious ''gated-community'' located in the much desired Bosque Encantado. This community is situated west of the bosque and has mature trees, walking trails, is close to restaurants/stores and is only a 30 minute drive to both Santa Fe and the Albuquerque Airport. This exceptional energy efficient home is ''Eco built with IFC construction''; keeps cool in summer/heat in the winter. The specs of the home: 3 bd + 4th bedroom or office, 3 ba and a spacious 3 car garage. The home has luxurious cherry wood floors, accents and cabinetry, tile in the wet areas and carpet in the living areas. Stylish kitchen has a stainless package, granite and a private dining area. This home has too many exceptional features to list; come see for yourself. Schedule a showing today!

Learn More!

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

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

October is National Fire Safety Month, and now is a great time to review your plans to keep your family and home in Albuquerque safe from fire. In fact, you should regularly review your fire safety plans. Nobody wants to dwell on what can happen in a house fire. But planning for that possibility can save lives.

Here are a few things to plan for and consider:

Smoke Alarms

• Install smoke alarms outside every bedroom or any area where someone sleeps. Also install them in furnace areas. Be sure there is at least 1 alarm on every level of your home, including the basement, or at each end of a mobile home.
• Place smoke alarms away from the kitchen and bathroom. False alarms can occur while cooking or even showering.
• Test smoke alarms every month by pushing the test button. It is best to use smoke alarms that have long-life batteries, but if you do not, change the batteries at least once a year, such as when you change your clocks in the fall.
• Replace smoke alarms every 10 years.
• Never paint a smoke alarm.
• Clean (dust or vacuum) smoke alarms once a month.
• Use smoke alarms equipped with a flashing light and an alarm in homes with children or adults who are hard of hearing or deaf .

Fire Drills

Even young children (3 and older) can begin to learn what to do in case of a fire.

• Install at least 1 smoke alarm on every level of your home.
• Have an escape plan and practice it with your family. This will help you and your family reach safety when it counts. When a fire occurs, there will be no time for planning an escape.
• Draw a floor plan of your home. Discuss with your family 2 ways to exit every room. Make sure everyone knows how to get out and that doors and windows can be easily opened to permit escape. If you live in an apartment building, never use an elevator during a fire. Use the stairs!
• Agree on a meeting place. Choose a spot outside your home near a tree, street corner, or fence where everyone can meet after escaping. Teach your children that the sound of a smoke alarm means to go outside right away to the chosen place.
• Teach children how to call the fire department. The fire department should be called from outside using a portable phone or from a neighbor's home. Whether the number is 911 or a regular phone number, everyone in the family should know it by heart. Make sure your children know your home address, too. Teach your children that firefighters are friends and never to hide from them.
• Practice, practice, practice. Practice your exit drill at least twice a year. Remember that fire drills are not a race. Get out quickly, but calmly and carefully. Try practicing realistic situations. Pretend that some exits or doorways are blocked or that the lights are out. The more prepared your family is, the better your chances of surviving a fire.

Of course there's nothing anyone can do to prevent a fire from occurring 100%. But with some planning and preparation, you can escape a house fire alive and safely.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

1632 BORREGO Drive SE, Albuquerque, NM 87123

Welcome home to this Almost-New Townhome in the heart of Volterra Village! This precious LGI home features a beautiful kitchen with gas range, granite countertops, pantry and plenty of counter space, plus a water softener and reverse osmosis system! The open floorplan downstairs features a well-sized living area, dining area plus a convenient half bath. Enjoy the mountain views from your backyard with a covered patio and easy-to-maintain xeriscaping plus gorgeous views off the master bedroom balcony. WIth a 2-car garage, 3 bedrooms, and 2 1/2 baths, this has everything you need. For easy living, with close access to I-40, shopping, and Kirkland AFB, make this one home today.

Learn More!

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

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

If you plan to sell your Albuquerque home soon or just want to maintain stunning aesthetics throughout the year, you don't need to spend a fortune on décor. It's not uncommon for homeowners to feel lost without a professional interior designer or decorator if they're not familiar with the process. 

Some décor tricks are even more expensive in certain seasons due to the fact that they only work at certain times of the year. This article highlights a few tips to help you save on home décor throughout the year.

Decorating With Flowers 

There are approximately 400 different types of flowering plants on earth, which makes flowers some of nature's most diverse elements. Patterns, shapes, sizes, and colors vary widely. 

The time of year when flowers are in full bloom and readily available also varies widely. Therefore, you will always find flowers that suit your home décor needs, regardless of the season.

Flowers are cultivated and delivered to customers when they need them the most, and some varieties can be dried for home decor. 

You can even get your flowers delivered to your home or preferred address, sometimes at discounted prices.

Throw Pillows 

Any house would benefit from throw pillows. The right choice of these items not only enhances the room's coziness and brightness during the colder months, but they can also contribute to a happier summer. 

You can have different washable cushion covers custom-made to feature a theme that matches each season and mood as long as you choose quality throw pillows. Mix and match bold textures and patterns that blend well with the rest of your decor.

Artwork or Family Photos 

Art never goes out of style, or does it? Displaying artwork can transform a boring wall into one that is incredibly captivating. Whether it’s framed, mounted on a board, or in the form of stickers, carefully chosen artwork can inexpensively keep your home décor stunning throughout the seasons.

And you know what else never gets old? Family photos, especially those that tell a story or hold precious memories. So, you can have a specific part of a wall in your home to host these treasured keepsakes.

Play With Fabric 

As far as home décor is concerned, fabric has become a craze in recent years. Your options for decorating with fabric are literally endless, from pillows to blankets, tablecloths, and curtains. There’s virtually something you can find fabric for at the thrift store, enough to add to the rich texture of your home. The same goes for wallpaper.

And as might have already been hinted above, fabric manufacturers know the importance of including season-friendly vibes and characteristics when designing their products.

Decorative Rugs and Mats 

Depending on the type of flooring you use, rugs and mats are a great way to elevate your home's elegance while enhancing comfort. They are also available in a wide range of designs, textures, and colors, both classic and trendy. 

It is relatively inexpensive and easy to obtain most of them. For summer months, you can choose lighter mats and rugs, while for cooler months you can choose heavier, more comfortable options.

Home décor is always a diverse topic, and one that some people find challenging to navigate. However, information is all you may need to keep your home strikingly elegant and make it as inviting as it can get.

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