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Staging Your Home to Sell in Albuquerque

by Sandi Pressley

Are you getting your home ready to sell in Albuquerque? If so, it’s a busy time for sure, with plenty of preparations to make. One of the things you need to really focus on though is making your home stand out in the Albuquerque real estate market. This is called staging. Many people may feel the need to hire a professional to make their home shine. There’s nothing at all wrong with that idea, but it can get expensive.  You can save money by doing a few basic main tasks. And the best part is that you can save money and raise the potential of selling your home for more.  Here’s what you can do.

De-Clutter & Clean

Who wants to buy a dirty home? Not many, so make sure you go through your house with a fine-tooth comb. Your home needs the deepest clean it’s ever had. Go room by room and clean from top to bottom.  Then sort through all of your possessions and decide what really needs to stay for showings and what you can discard or put in storage.  Doing this kills two birds with one stone. You not only raise the appeal of your home, but it will be easier to move when you sell. Keep in mind that this is no longer going to be your home. Buyers need to see it as their own, so make sure the slate is as clean as possible so that they can envision their own possessions in it.

Be Versatile

Sure, the pink kid’s room may have been cute once. But it may not appeal to everyone. The best thing with rooms is to make them more generic instead of making it seem like they need to be used for the purpose you used them for. You can paint the bedrooms a more gender neutral color and take down posters and other personal items.  If you have a room that you used for something specific, like a sewing room, you may want to turn it into a more general guest room with a desk or table for projects.  Like we mentioned above, buyers need to see this home as their own and be able to see themselves living in it.

Curb Appeal

We all know the saying about first impressions. When it comes to selling a home, that saying rings true. What do people think when they drive by your home? Why not ask your neighbors or friends? The more ideas and input you can get, the better. The fact is that many times buyers will drive by a home before they even schedule a showing. You don’t want that, obviously, so make sure you make the outside of your home appeal to as many buyers as possible.  You should make sure the yard is well cared for.  Add a fresh coat of paint to the siding and trim.  Polish or replace dull hardware.  Clean the walkways and driveway. Also think about investing in new roofing if it’s showing its age.

Other things you can look at in your home are making sure your foyer is clean and clutter free, do a walk through to find areas to focus on, find ways to let in more light, cleaning the fridge and organize the cupboards.

Search for your dream home in Albuquerque with our easy to use home search. Check back on our blog every week for more real estate advice and local articles about living in Albuquerque. And make sure to follow us on Facebook for up to date real estate news for Albuquerque and surrounding areas.

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

1005 Quincy Street SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108  $210,000

3 Bedrooms / 1 Bathrooms (1 full) / 1105 Square Feet

UNM South 3BDRs/1BA/1CG HUGE BACKYARD!!! WOW! Beautifully REMODELED KITCHEN with Quartz countertops, new cabinetry, SS appliances, recessed lighting! NEW ROOF! (2018) Updated windows! Hardwood floors!! Huge backyard features a pergola covered patio, grass, trees & mature landscaping & walled for privacy & plenty of room to entertain family & friends!! Excellent location UNM South, close to parks, schools, shopping, UNM & Nob Hill!!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Sandi Pressley and Her Team Get Rave Reviews

by Sandi Pressley

Since 1979, Sandi Pressley has been making dreams come true in Albuquerque. In fact, Sandi is the #1 Top Producing Realtor for 33 consecutive years, not just in Albuquerque, but all of New Mexico! You only need to hear what her happy home buyers and sellers have to say about Sandi and her team to know why. Here’s a few of the hundreds of comments that people have made over the years about their extraordinary experience buying or selling a home in Albuquerque with Sandi Pressley and her team.

“Sandi and her team are the ultimate tools to engage when you are looking to make a move in real estate. We have used Sandi and team twice now, and would never consider anyone else. Sandi’s team is very honest, thorough and professional. Great recommendations for any modifications that need to be addresses, backed up with excellent (and reasonably priced) contract professionals to handle any aspects. “
- Kelly

“Very impressed with efficiency and professionalism of the entire team. “
- Ystesund

“Sandi and her team were knowledgeable, responsible, and a pleasure to deal with the entire way. I would recommend Sandi Pressley and her team to anyone needing to sell their home. “
- McDonald

“I have been working with Sandi for many years. I am so happy we closed on a property. So now to sell my property and buy one in town. So much to look forward to! Working with Sandi is like working with my sister!”
- Bilbo

“Sandi's team is phenomenal and we would not consider working with anyone else! Our agent Kat Jacob handled our listing and sale with excellence and we sold in 4 days. Thanks Sandi!”
- Church

Sandi Pressley sold our home in the most satisfying real estate transaction I've ever experienced, and I have bought and sold twenty homes in my lifetime. She clearly established her competence during her initial meeting. The house sold to the second party viewing it. Neighbors down the street attempting to sell a similar home for several months immediately hired her to represent them. However the remaining very significant factor motivating this recommendation is the tremendously effective and service oriented team she employs to shepherd the seller through the settlement process. To repeat the words I said to her, she is a treasure. “
- Reilly

These outstanding recommendations only scratch the surface what people are saying about The Sandi Pressley Team.  Check out our testimonials to read all the great things Sandi’s clients have to say.

If you want to have the same amazing experience buying or selling your next home in Albuquerque, give us a call at 505-263-2173 to speak with Sandi Pressley and her team today!

Search for your dream home in Albuquerque with our easy to use home search. Check back on our blog every week for more real estate advice and local articles about living in Albuquerque. And make sure to follow us on Facebook for up to date real estate news for Albuquerque and surrounding areas.

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

1133 Santa Ana Avenue SE, Albuquerque, NM 87123  $499,000

4 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms (2 full, 1 partial) / 3550 Square Feet

Oversized .46 Acre Corner Lot! BACKYARD ACCESS! Incredible backyard for entertaining family & friends with the great room & game room opening on to the covered patio, pool area and beautiful landscaping! Separate wings, 4BDRs, 3BATHs, TWO living areas, formal dining and large game room with built-ins, cabinets & wet bar! Refrigerated Air! Pool & electric pool cover! Lots of windows and skylights make it light, bright and open! Kitchen features a built-in oven, gas cooktop, built-in cabs, tile flooring & bkfst nook. Oversized master suite opens on to the covered patio & features a jetted tub, separate shower, double vanity and walk-in closet. Conveniently located close to the golf course, shopping, easy access to KAFB, Sandia Labs, downtown ABQ!!!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

What are Appraisal Contingencies?

by Sandi Pressley

Here's the scenario: You're buying a home in Albuquerque, and the seller has accepted your offer.  The contract is signed and you've paid the deposit.  Then you have the home appraised and it turns out that the home is worth less than what you offered. And now the bank won't grant the mortgage.  So how do you avoid this kind of situation? Appraisal contingencies are the answer.

What are appraisal contingencies?  They are conditions that have to be met on a real estate contract before it becomes legally binding.  Most real estate contract include these conditions:

  1. The appraisal contingency: This states that the home has to be appraised at the sale price or higher.  This will help keep the mortgage from falling through.
  2. The finance contingency: This mandates that the deal is based on the bank granting the loan.
  3. The inspection contingency: The home must pass inspection.

These conditions must be met in a specified time.  If they aren't then there's no deal and you get your deposit back.

The appraisal contingency works like this: the bank hires an appraiser to assess the fair market value of the home.  This value is based on similar Albuquerque homes in the area, and is referred to as comparative sales, or comps. The bank will only loan the amount that the home is appraised for.  So if the appraisal is lower than what the seller is asking and they refuse to lower the price, you can walk away from the deal and get your money back.

So you might wonder if this is the same thing as a finance contingency. The finance contingency can sometimes cover the same things. If the bank refuses to write a mortgage based on a lower appraisal, then you can leave the deal.  But the bank may agree to a smaller loan that meets the finance contingency. In that case, the seller can demand that you pay the difference.  So if you don't also have the appraisal contingency, then you're left having to come up with that extra money, or be in breech of contract and possibly lose your deposit. And that's why you should have both the appraisal and finance contingency in a contract.

What if the appraisal is too low and you still want the home?  You can ask the bank for another assessment, as well as present evidence that represents what you believe makes the home worth more.

Should you ever enter a deal without contingencies? In this hot Albuquerque real estate market, sellers can entertain offers from multiple buyers.  The easier the deal is for them, the better chance you have of getting the home.  But you run the risk that you won't get the loan you need. In the end, it's up to you, based on the market and what risks you want to take either way.

Search for your dream home in Albuquerque with our easy to use home search. Check back on our blog every week for more real estate advice and local articles about living in Albuquerque. And make sure to follow us on Facebook for up to date real estate news for Albuquerque and surrounding areas.

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

1133 Santa Ana Avenue SE, Albuquerque, NM 87123  $499,000

4 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms (2 full, 1 partial) / 3550 Square Feet

Oversized .46 Acre Corner Lot! BACKYARD ACCESS! Incredible backyard for entertaining family & friends with the great room & game room opening on to the covered patio, pool area and beautiful landscaping! Separate wings, 4BDRs, 3BATHs, TWO living areas, formal dining and large game room with built-ins, cabinets & wet bar! Refrigerated Air! Pool & electric pool cover! Lots of windows and skylights make it light, bright and open! Kitchen features a built-in oven, gas cooktop, built-in cabs, tile flooring & bkfst nook. Oversized master suite opens on to the covered patio & features a jetted tub, separate shower, double vanity and walk-in closet. Conveniently located close to the golf course, shopping, easy access to KAFB, Sandia Labs, downtown ABQ!!!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

The Easter Bunny Arrives in Albuquerque

by Sandi Pressley

The Easter Bunny is coming to Albuquerque, and it’s time for Springtime fun this April. Albuquerque has all the Easter fun you can handle this month, with egg hunts, parades, baseball fun, and of course, meet the Easter bunny himself. Here’s a few Easter events you can look forward to attending with the family in Albuquerque.

Old Windmill Dairy Easter Egg Hunt
Saturday, April 20 and Sunday, April 21, 2019, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m

A tradition since 2012, this Easter Egg hunt continues to be a hit. After the kids hunt for eggs, they can enjoy artisan cheese, visit the baby goats, or ride on the carnival rides. Costs range from free to $25, depending on the activities.

Eggs N' Beggin Petacular Event
April 13, 2019
Rio Rancho's Cabezon Park

The Eggs N' Beggin Petacular Event takes place in Rio Rancho's Cabezon Park. Pooches and their owners will hit the park dressed in Easter-themed gear for the annual pet costume contest and parade. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and the costume contest takes place after the parade. Winners in each category get a prize, and categories include "Best Pet/Owner Look Alike," "Best Little Dog," and "Best Big Dog."

Spring Fling Enrichment at the ABQ BioPark Zoo
April 21, 2019, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m

Come to the zoo and watch the primates, hoofstock, carnivores, and elephants get special paper-mâché toys, egg-shaped cereal bars, treats, and hard-boiled eggs. And you kids will also get candy and treats on a first-come, first-served basis.

Easter Events at the Cottonwood Mall
Throughout April

Enjoy Easter events during the month of April at the Cottonwood Mall, with the highlights taking place during the Easter weekend.

There will be Pet Pics With the Bunny and Kid X Eggstravaganza. You can visit with the bunny or get your pets' pictures taken with the bunny  on Pet Pics day.  The Kid X Eggstravaganza features an egg hunt, exciting prizes, and fun activities like egg decorating. You can also visit the â€‹Coronado Mall for more Easter Bunny photo opportunities for children and pets alike.

Search for your dream home in Albuquerque with our easy to use home search. Check back on our blog every week for more real estate advice and local articles about living in Albuquerque. And make sure to follow us on Facebook for up to date real estate news for Albuquerque and surrounding areas.

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

1120 Edith Boulevard SE, Albuquerque, NM 87102   $202,000

 

3 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms (1 full, 1 partial) / 1413 Square Feet

Welcome this one story Hip cottage, bungalow style, built 1908 in the urban South Broadway Neighborhood. Home features 2 covered porches, historic front faces west and east facing back. Over sized lot for the area, and entire property is fenced. Original wood floors. Home offers 3 bedrooms, and 2 baths. 3rd bedroom currently being used as an office. Newer updates include, ROOF, windows, evaporative cooler. This home is not to be missed!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Fire Pit or Money Pit? Ways to Avoid Overspending

by Sandi Pressley

Indoor evenings on the couch are so last season. Relaxing around a fire and under the Albuquerque night sky is about to be the place for a perfect night. But a built-in fire pit can cost as much as $4,500 installed. That’s a pricey upgrade.

If you build a fire pit in Albuquerque, there is an Outdoor Burn Program that you should check first.

With these money-saving tips, you can build a fire pit for your Albuquerque home for less than a grand, and still have a fabulous one:

Choose Wood Instead of Gas

Gas fire pits are more expensive because you’ll have to hire a plumber to run the gas line and an electrician to power the pit.

A wood fire pit has none of that cost, which will run at least several hundred dollars. Besides, who doesn’t love the smokey ambiance of a wood fire?

If You Want Gas, Put It Close to Your House

OK, not everyone loves an ashy, smoky fire pit. If you do want the simplicity of gas, you can get it most cheaply by keeping that gas line as short as possible.

The farther from your house that plumber has to run the gas line, the longer he’ll be there. And the longer he’s there, the more it will cost. And remember the electrician you’re going to pay to run wires to power the automatic starter? Same thing.

Skip the Built-In Seating

Those stone benches in a semicircle around a flaming fire pit look like money. That’s because they’re made of it.

Built-in benches that will seat six people with a comfortable amount of personal space can cost as much — or more — as the fire pit itself.

Six resin Adirondack chairs can cost as little as $120. Plus, chairs are easier on your butt as well as your wallet.

Don't Do Custom Anything

You can have a fire pit designed just for you. But unless you’re a trust-funder or just like spending money like one, stick with a contractor’s standard build. Most offer prefab, modular units that cost at least half as much as a custom build.

Go With a Paver Patio

Flagstone gives you the natural beauty of real stone, but it costs $15 to $20 per square foot. Unless you’re making a one-person pit, that will add up. A paver patio looks manufactured, but it costs $6 to $10 per square foot.

Choose a Decomposed Granite Patio (It's the Cheapest!) It looks like sand. It isn’t fancy. But it’s cheap. A pro can lay this stuff for as little as $2 a square foot.

Very important: Heavy rainfall can wash away a decomposed granite patio. If you live in Albuquerque, decomposed granite is a great option.

Search for your dream home in Albuquerque with our easy to use home search. Check back on our blog every week for more real estate advice and local articles about living in Albuquerque. And make sure to follow us on Facebook for up to date real estate news for Albuquerque and surrounding areas.

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

1120 Edith Boulevard SE, Albuquerque, NM 87102   $202,000

 

3 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms (1 full, 1 partial) / 1413 Square Feet

Welcome this one story Hip cottage, bungalow style, built 1908 in the urban South Broadway Neighborhood. Home features 2 covered porches, historic front faces west and east facing back. Over sized lot for the area, and entire property is fenced. Original wood floors. Home offers 3 bedrooms, and 2 baths. 3rd bedroom currently being used as an office. Newer updates include, ROOF, windows, evaporative cooler. This home is not to be missed!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

April Is Full of Fun in Albuquerque

by Sandi Pressley

Spring fever is in the air in Albuquerque! It time to get out and experience the the great events that make Albuquerque so special. This April you can look forward to tasting fresh produce, celebrating the native cultures of the Southwest, and traveling back in time to the middle ages. Here's a few events you can look forward to this coming month in Albuquerque.

GRAND OPENING OF THE TURQUOISE MUSEUM - DOWNTOWN
April 6, 2019 - April 30, 2019
Turquoise Museum | 400 2nd St. S.W., Albuquerque, NM 87102

Turquoise Museum
400 2nd St. S.W., Albuquerque, NM 87102Turquoise Museum | 400 2nd St. S.W., Albuquerque, NM 87102

Celebrate the opening of the new location of the Turquoise Museum! The museum contains some of the world's rarest and most collectible pieces of turquoise and turquoise jewelry. You'll also learn about Mining, Science, Grading Turquoise, Lapidary Techniques, Turquoise Imitations, and Mystical Qualities. Don't miss this amazing castle with it's grand halls, spiral staircase, and 127 chandeliers!

DOWNTOWN GROWERS' MARKET
April 13, 2019 - November 2, 2019
Robinson Park

This family friendly market is one of the largest and longest running Markets in New Mexico. You'll find just about anything here that grows locally, along with food carts, arts and crafts, local band performances, and fun activities for friends and family to enjoy including yoga in the park.

The grower's market is a free event, and donations are welcome to keep the market running.

40TH ANNUAL AMERICAN INDIAN WEEK
April 22, 2019 - April 28, 2019
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

Everyone can enjoy American Indian Week, with cultural Native dances several times each day, workshops led by Native art experts each afternoon, and artists offering authentic handcrafted work for sale. Pueblo Harvest will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner as usual, as well as host a special concession window in the courtyard.

American Indian Week Spring Art Market | Saturday April 27 – Sunday April 28 daily from 9 am – 5 pm

Art lovers will not want to miss the last weekend of American Indian Week. The courtyard transforms into a bustling marketplace with dozens of artist booths featuring pottery, jewelry, paintings, and more. Enjoy all the activities of our week-long cultural celebration with an extra emphasis on art.

36TH ANNUAL GATHERING OF NATIONS POWWOW
April 25, 2019 - April 27, 2019
Tingley Coliseum

The Gathering of Nations Is North America`s biggest Pow Wow.  This family friendly event has something for everyone, with the much-anticipated Grand Entry, where thousands of Native American dancers simultaneously enter the dance floor inside Tingley Coliseum dressed in colorful traditional regalia to the sounds of rhythmic drums.

2019 ALBUQUERQUE RENAISSANCE FAIRE
April 27, 2019
Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum

Come all ye lords and ladies to the The Albuquerque Renaissance Faire! Meet royalty, learn about traditions of the past with Living History demonstrations and feast on food fit for a king. Kids can Fight a Knight, babies can Crawl to the Crown and four-legged friends can participate in the Pet Fashion Contest. Enjoy performances by local bands Le Chat Lunatique and Silver String Band. 

Search for your dream home in Albuquerque with our easy to use home search. Check back on our blog every week for more real estate advice and local articles about living in Albuquerque. And make sure to follow us on Facebook for up to date real estate news for Albuquerque and surrounding areas.

 

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

1824 Bold Ruler Road SE, Albuquerque, NM 87123  $425,000

4 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms (3 full) / 4650 Square Feet

Seller paid lot premium for over sized corner lot. Original Owner built and upgraded Raylee-Vantage home. No PID!! Fantastic 4650 sq ft 4/5 bedrooms plus huge family room upstairs perfect for home theater, pool table.1 Spacious bedroom and full bath plus office area on main level. 5th bedroom currently used as exercise room. 2 large living areas , formal living and huge formal dining room. Kitchen is a dream with beautiful sile stone counter tops, island, and sunny breakfast nook. Kitchen opens on to spacious family room with fireplace. Master suite has private balcony, double sink, jetted tub, sep shower. Beautifully landscaped front and back, bubble drip and sprinklers designed for low maintenance, wonderful covered patio. Over sized 3 Car Garage, Home is immaculate, shows like model!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

Get Ready For Albuquerque's Farmer's Markets

by Sandi Pressley

Spring is here, and with it will soon come the fresh fruits and vegetables of the farmer’s and organic markets in Albuquerque. It’s that time of year that all of us who enjoy the heathy great flavors of the Southwest wait for. Here’s a list of the top farmer’s markets opening soon in the Albuquerque area, along with opening dates. Set your calendars!

Downtown Growers' Market
Opens April 14

Located in historic Robinson Park on Saturdays, April 14-November 2, 8am-noon, this large market is home to over 75 New Mexican growers. They also feature live music, yoga, bike valet, and accept EBT/SNAP (and double it for you so you can be twice as healthy)!

Rail Yards Market
Opens May – October on Sundays

This community organized grower’s market celebrates all things Albuquerque, as they provide hundreds of vendors featuring the finest food, farm fresh produce, art, and healing products. With live music and educational zones for the kids, there’s something for everyone.

Corrales Grower’s Market
Winter Market Open Through April 7 | Regular Season Opens April 28

Here’s  a great local farmer’s market where you can buy your green chilies and have them roasted while you wait. And while you wait for your chilies to roast, you can visit dozens of vendors selling local farm fresh goods, arts & crafts, and home made items, along with live music.

Moktezu Mart Market
115 Harvard Dr SE | Bldg B Retail 3 | Albuquerque, NM 87106

If you can’t wait for the outside farmer’s markets to open, then Moktezu is a great alternative to get your farm fresh produce and other natural items. You’ll also find coffee, atole, smoothies and wheatgrass shots, locally made tamales, veggie & chicken burrito, veggie & chicken tacos, quesadillas, rice, beans, tostadas and pan dulce.

Search for your dream home in Albuquerque with our easy to use home search. Check back on our blog every week for more real estate advice and local articles about living in Albuquerque. And make sure to follow us on Facebook for up to date real estate news for Albuquerque and surrounding areas.

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

7904 Charger Trail NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109  $375,000

4 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms (1 full, 2 half) / 2828 Square Feet

NEW ROOF! (2018) NEWER CARPET & PAINT! (2017) Single story 4BDR/3BA/2G with TWO LIVING AREAS, formal dining, oversized eat-in kitchen plus sunroom! .25 ACRE LOT! REFRIGERATED AIR! Skylights! Wet bar and wood burning fireplace in the oversized family room! Large secondary bedrooms, walk-in closets! Master bath has updated wood tile flooring, double sink vanity and sep vanity! Spacious eat-in kitchen features lots of cabinets, newer oven and dishwasher (2017 & 2018). Beautifully landscaped yard with mature trees, grass and shrubs! Conveniently located in Academy Estates neighborhood, close to shopping, Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, Alb Academy, parks, schools & restaurants! Sandia High School district!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

Buying a home in Albuquerque should be an investment that gives you safety and security, along with financial security. Before you buy a home in Albuquerque, you should make sure you can afford the mortgage and that it fits in your budget.

Prepare a Detailed Budget

The standard rule of thumb says that you can afford a home that costs 2 to 3 times your gross income for one year. In other words, if you earn $100,000 in a year, you should be able to afford a home between $200k to $300k.

There is one problem with this rule. It doesn't factor in your monthly expenses and debts. If we use our previous example of $100k per year income, and you have $1000 monthly debt payments, this leaves you with less money to pay the mortgage.

You should prepare a family budget that takes into account your ongoing monthly bills for everything — credit cards, car and student loans, lunch at work, day care, date night, vacations, and savings.

Now you can see what's left to cover the costs of owning a home, such as your mortgage, property taxes, insurance, maintenance, utilities, and community association fees, if applicable.

Factor in Your Down Payment

Having enough for a down payment is also an important factor to consider. It's simple: the higher the down payment, the lower your monthly mortgage costs will be. If you put down at least 20% of the home’s cost, you may not have to get private mortgage insurance, which protects the lender if you default and costs hundreds each month. That leaves more money for your mortgage payment.

The lower your down payment, the higher the loan amount you’ll need to qualify for and the higher your monthly mortgage payment.

But, if interest rates and/or home prices are rising and you wait to buy until you accumulate a bigger down payment, you may end up paying more for your home.

Consider Your Overall Debt

Lenders generally follow the 43% rule. Your monthly mortgage payments covering your home loan principal, interest, taxes and insurance, plus all your other bills, like car loans, utilities, and credit cards, shouldn’t exceed 43% of your gross annual income.

Here’s an example of how the 43% calculation works for a home buyer making $100,000 a year before taxes:

  1. Your gross annual income is $100,000.
  2. Multiply $100,000 by 43% to get $43,000 in annual income.
  3. Divide $43,000 by 12 months to convert the annual 43% limit into a monthly upper limit of $3,583.
  4. All your monthly bills including your potential mortgage can’t go above $3,583 per month.

You might find a lender willing to give you a mortgage with a payment that goes above the 43% line, but consider carefully before you take it.

Use Your Rent as a Mortgage Guide

If you currently are renting, then you can use an online calculator to compare the costs of renting vs owning a home to see which makes the most sense for your financial situation.

If you’re struggling to keep up with your rent, buy a home that will give you the same payment rather than going up to a higher monthly payment. You’ll have additional costs for home ownership that your landlord now covers, like property taxes and repairs. If there’s no room in your budget for those extras, you could become financially stressed.

Also consider whether or not you’ll itemize your deductions. If you take the standard deduction, you can’t also deduct mortgage interest payments. Talking to a tax adviser, or using a tax software program to do a “what if” tax return, can help you see your tax situation more clearly.

Search for your dream home in Albuquerque with our easy to use home search. Check back on our blog every week for more real estate advice and local articles about living in Albuquerque. And make sure to follow us on Facebook for up to date real estate news for Albuquerque and surrounding areas.

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

7904 Charger Trail NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109  $375,000

4 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms (1 full, 2 half) / 2828 Square Feet

NEW ROOF! (2018) NEWER CARPET & PAINT! (2017) Single story 4BDR/3BA/2G with TWO LIVING AREAS, formal dining, oversized eat-in kitchen plus sunroom! .25 ACRE LOT! REFRIGERATED AIR! Skylights! Wet bar and wood burning fireplace in the oversized family room! Large secondary bedrooms, walk-in closets! Master bath has updated wood tile flooring, double sink vanity and sep vanity! Spacious eat-in kitchen features lots of cabinets, newer oven and dishwasher (2017 & 2018). Beautifully landscaped yard with mature trees, grass and shrubs! Conveniently located in Academy Estates neighborhood, close to shopping, Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, Alb Academy, parks, schools & restaurants! Sandia High School district!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

Negotiate Your Best House Buy in Albuquerque

by Sandi Pressley

Buying a home in Albuquerque can have moments that can get emotional. Yet it doesn’t need to be that way. If you stick to a plan and follow the lead of your agent, you can get through this. Although your agent may offer advice, it’s ultimately you that needs to make the final decision.

Here are six tips for negotiating the best price on a home.

Get Prequalified for a Mortgage

Prequalifying for a mortgage does two things – it shows the seller that you’re serious about buying their home and that you can afford it. This also put you in the lead of those who don’t take this important first step.

Ask Questions

Questions are a good thing. Ask all the questions you want. You need to know many things about the home and seller you’re interested in. What's the seller's motivation for selling? What is their financial position? Are they facing foreclosure or a short sale? Have they already purchased a home or relocated, which may make them eager to accept a lower price to avoid paying two mortgages? Has the home been on the market for a long time, or was it just listed? Have there been other offers? If so, why did they fall through? The more signs that sellers are eager to sell, the lower your offer can reasonably go.

Work Back From a Final Price to Determine Your Initial Offer

Decide beforehand what you're willing to pay. Then you can work back from that number to make an initial offer. If you bid too low, you may offend the seller. If you bid too high, you may end up spending more than you need to.

You agent can work with you to compare homes in area that have sold recently to come to a fair initial offer.

Avoid Contingencies

Sellers don't like taking chances. Nobody does for that matter. So keep the bid free of complicated contingencies, such as making the purchase conditional on the sale of your current home. Try to keep contingencies for mortgage approval, home inspection, and environmental checks typical in your area, like radon.

Remain Unemotional

Remember that buying a home is a business deal. Treat it that way. Consider any movement by the sellers, however slight, a sign of interest, and keep negotiating.

Each time you make a concession, ask for one in return. If the sellers ask you to boost your price, ask them to contribute to closing costs or pay for a home warranty. If sellers won’t budge, make it clear you’re willing to walk away; they may get nervous and accept your offer.

Don't Let Competition Change Your Plan

Great homes and those competitively priced can draw multiple offers in any market. Don’t let competition propel you to go beyond your predetermined price or agree to concessions — such as waiving an inspection — that aren’t in your best interest.

Search for your dream home in Albuquerque with our easy to use home search. Check back on our blog every week for more real estate advice and local articles about living in Albuquerque. And make sure to follow us on Facebook for up to date real estate news for Albuquerque and surrounding areas.

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

3504 Yipee Calle Court NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120  $259,000
$499,000
6309 Dorado Beach NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111  $349,000

4 Bedrooms / 4 Bathrooms (1 full, 3 half) / 2281 Square Feet

Tanoan Torrey Pines! 4BDR/3.5 BATH! NEW TPO ROOF! (2018) So many updates including REFRIGERATED AIR! NEW HVAC (2016)! PELLA WINDOWS! (2013) RE-STUCCO! UPGRADED KITCHEN & MASTER BATH! NEW FRONT DOOR (2018)! Floor plan features office/study/bedroom on main level, formal dining, open living room featuring French doors to outdoor patio, wood tile flooring and cozy fireplace! Updated kitchen features granite counter tops, double oven, pantry, breakfast nook and access to the outdoor patio! Master suite features an updated over-sized shower, double sink vanity & built-in organizer walk-in closet. One bedroom suite has its own private bath! Beautiful New Orleans style back patio, perfect and private for entertaining family & friends!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Upcoming Events in Albuquerque

by Sandi Pressley


As Spring is just around the corner, it's time to get out and have some fun this March and April in Albuquerque. Here's a few upcoming events that are sure to put some spring in your step.

RIO GRANDE ARTS & CRAFTS SPRING SHOW
March 8, 2019 - March 10, 2019
EXPO New Mexico, Lujan Exhibit Complex, 300 San Pedro Dr. N.E., Albuquerque, NM 87108

185 fine artists and craftsmen come from all over the country to Expo New Mexico for the Rio Grande Spring Show. Marking the state’s first major art event of the year, this juried indoor festival focuses on fine arts and crafts while offering something fun for the whole family! You can shop a colorful variety of works in all mediums, from leather and pottery to jewelry and woodwork, while also enjoying artist demonstrations, foods sampling, and live entertainment. 

19TH ANNUAL REVOLUTIONS INTERNATIONAL THEATRE FESTIVAL
March 9, 2019 - March 30, 2019
Tricklock Performance Laboratory, 110 Gold Ave. S.W., Albuquerque, NM 87102

NEW MEXICO UNITED'S INAUGURAL SEASON
March 9, 2019 - October 19, 2019
Albuquerque Isotopes Baseball Club 1601 Avenida Cesar Chavez S.E., Albuquerque, NM 87106

Come watch New Mexico’s pro soccer team as they take soccer, the state and every single fan to the next level.

SOUTHWEST CHOCOLATE & COFFEE FEST
March 16, 2019 - March 17, 2019

The nation's largest festival dedicated to chocolate, coffee, and gourmet foods featuring the finest chocolatiers, coffee roasters, candy makers, bakers, breweries, wineries, and gourmet food companies. Live entertainment, professional cooking demonstrations, and a dedicated Kids Zone with free activities.

2019 FIESTAS DE ALBUQUERQUE
April 6, 2019
Old Town Plaza 200 N Plaza St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104

Celebrate Albuquerque's birthday and enjoy the history and traditions of our city with free children's activities, live artist demonstrations, local food, shopping, and fun for the whole family. Fiestas de Albuquerque will feature live entertainment performed by a variety of local talent including headliner, Gonzalo.

Check back on our blog every week for more real estate advice and local articles about living in Albuquerque. And make sure to follow us on Facebook for up to date real estate news for Albuquerque and surrounding areas.

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

1005 Quincy Street SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108  $210,000

3 Bedrooms / 1 Bathrooms (1 full) / 1105 Square Feet

UNM South 3BDRs/1BA/1CG HUGE BACKYARD!!! WOW! Beautifully REMODELED KITCHEN with Quartz countertops, new cabinetry, SS appliances, recessed lighting! NEW ROOF! (2018) Updated windows! Hardwood floors!! Huge backyard features a pergola covered patio, grass, trees & mature landscaping & walled for privacy & plenty of room to entertain family & friends!! Excellent location UNM South, close to parks, schools, shopping, UNM & Nob Hill!!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

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Photo of The Sandi Pressley Team Real Estate
The Sandi Pressley Team
Coldwell Banker Legacy
10400 Academy Rd. NE Suite 100
Albuquerque NM 87111
505-980-2999
505-263-2173 / 505 293-3700
Fax: 505-212-0729

Quick links to this site are also SandiSells.net or SandiSellsHomes.com