Real Estate Information

Warmest wishes this Thanksgiving from all of us at The Sandi Pressley Team. We’re truly grateful for your support and patronage.

If you're looking for a great way to spend more time with your friends and family this weekend, check out "Walking in a Winter Wonderland." It's a Thanksgiving Weekend Lighting and Performance Tour in Villa Hispana & Indian Village. The Thanksgiving Weekend Lighting and performance tour opens on November 24th and offers guests an interactive walking tour throughout Villa Hispana, Indian Village and the Flower Building(all located in EXPO NM). 

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Buying a home in Albuquerque is an exciting yet potentially overwhelming experience. The process involves numerous steps that lead to the closing.

One of those steps is called a title search.

It is important to note that when purchasing a home, it is not always guaranteed that the seller has full entitlement to sell the property. There may be instances where another individual or entity has a claim or lien on the property in question. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct thorough due diligence and seek professional assistance to ensure a clear title before proceeding with the purchase.

That’s where a property title search is relevant.

What Happens During a Title Search?

When purchasing a home, conducting a title search is crucial. This process involves reviewing public property records to verify the legal ownership of the property. Additionally, a title search uncovers any existing liens or claims that may impact your ability to purchase the property.

A property title is distinct from a deed and is not a document. It represents ownership rights. A title company or attorney can conduct a property title search to ensure no other party can claim ownership. If you are obtaining financing, a title search is mandatory before the loan is funded.

Who Does a Title Search?

When purchasing a home, the responsibility of conducting a title search falls either on a title loan company or an attorney, depending on the location. After the contract is signed, the buyer's attorney may order the title search and either complete it themselves or delegate the task to a title company. The completed report is then sent to the seller's representative, who is responsible for handling any issues that may arise.

There are a lot of sources of information that might be accessed during a title search, including:

• County land records
• Deeds
• Property plats
• Tax liens at the state and federal level
• Divorce records
• Bankruptcy court records
• Construction liens
• Judgments

When a title search is done, it will also uncover details about mortgages associated with the property.

How Long Does it Take?

The duration of a title search can vary from a few hours to a few weeks. Generally, the older the home you are interested in purchasing, the longer the title search will take. This is due to the potential involvement of multiple owners and transactions related to the property.

What If There Are Issues?

Some of the common issues that can come up during a title search include:

• A break of chain in the title: In this scenario, there might be a missing deed in the chain. This is common in older homes.
• An improper description on the deed: There might be an improper or missing description on a deed, and that would require obtaining a corrected deed.
• Missing interests: If there’s a transfer via an estate in a title chain, then any heirs must have relinquished their interest in the property. If they haven’t, then you have to get deeds from the parties with an interest to release it.
• Liens: This is a legal claim or right on a property often used as a way to get repayment for a debt. Title searches can show if there’s a lien on a property and whether or not it might be expired or could be something requiring payment.

A title search is a crucial step in the home buying process. It is important to understand what happens during a title search and the potential results. To gain clarity, it is recommended to consult with your Realtor or attorney. Failing to uncover issues like judgments or liens before closing on a home can lead to costly and stressful situations down the line. If you purchase a home with a judgment against it, you may become responsible for resolving the issue.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Welcome to this wonderful home in the Sundoro South community. Big open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, three way fireplace. Kitchen offers stainless appliances, eat in bar, ample cabinets and countertops for food prep. Kitchen flows nicely into the dining room and great room. Through the sliding doors, find yourself in the best backyard party ever! Covered patio, plus the built-in BBQ grill, two smokers and a disc cooker. Great place to enjoy our NM weather. Back inside, Split primary suite, separate shower, garden tub, dual vanities and walk in closet. 2 more good sized bedrooms that share a bathroom. There is an additional flex space that could be used as an office, hobby room or home school. Beautiful Park just down the street, easy access to I-40.

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

The Nightmare Neighbor. It sounds like a bad B-rated movie plot. The Nightmare Neighbor is notorious for complaining about the slightest inconveniences, such as leaving garbage cans out for a few extra minutes after trash pickup, a legally parked car outside his house, or even a dog sniffing his lawn. It is best to avoid any interaction with him.

“Neighbors matter: more than three-quarters of Americans say neighbors factor into their decision when choosing a new home,” said mortgage company Ally. Their new survey asked more than 2,000 Americans about their favorite, and least favorite, qualities in a neighbor. “More than half of Americans report having had what they'd classify as a ‘nightmare neighbor’ in the past,” and 67% of the respondents said that “prior unhappy neighbor experiences make them realize the importance of good neighbors.” 

When searching for a new home in Albuquerque, there are three key steps to help determine who your neighbors truly are.

Ask

When inquiring about your possible future neighbors, sellers may not provide a direct response unless legally required to disclose any issues. Their main priority is to make the sale, so they may not inform you if they have a negative opinion about a neighbor. It's important to remember that their experiences with neighbors may not necessarily reflect your own.

Your real estate agent has a duty to you and may be able to gather information from the seller's agent. Additionally, consider asking other neighbors for information. If you see someone outside, take the opportunity to introduce yourself.

Spy

It is highly recommended to make multiple visits at different times of the day and on different days when purchasing a house. One brief visit is insufficient to fully understand what it is like to live in the neighborhood.

To make an informed decision, you should get out of the car and explore different routes on foot. By walking around the neighborhood at different times of the day, you can gather valuable information that will help you make the best choice. 

Research

Before you move, it is important to prioritize safety by checking for sexual offenders in the area using a site like Family Watchdog. Additionally, conducting a reverse address search on a platform like Spokeo can provide valuable information about specific houses in the neighborhood. With just a few clicks, you can uncover details such as names, police activity, or court records associated with the address.

To gather information about the people in the neighborhoods you're interested in, try accessing the Nextdoor community site or local Facebook pages. These platforms can provide valuable insights.

In the end, there's no way to know 100% if your new neighbors in Albuquerque will be an issue or not. But by following these steps, you can reduce the risk of having the nighmare neighbor.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Welcome to this wonderful home in the Sundoro South community. Big open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, three way fireplace. Kitchen offers stainless appliances, eat in bar, ample cabinets and countertops for food prep. Kitchen flows nicely into the dining room and great room. Through the sliding doors, find yourself in the best backyard party ever! Covered patio, plus the built-in BBQ grill, two smokers and a disc cooker. Great place to enjoy our NM weather. Back inside, Split primary suite, separate shower, garden tub, dual vanities and walk in closet. 2 more good sized bedrooms that share a bathroom. There is an additional flex space that could be used as an office, hobby room or home school. Beautiful Park just down the street, easy access to I-40.

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

Just listed! These latest homes for sale in Albuquerque offer unique design and features that are sure to impress even the most discerning home buyer. Both homes offer plenty of space for your growing family as well.

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

Welcome to this wonderful home in the Sundoro South community. Big open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, three way fireplace. Kitchen offers stainless appliances, eat in bar, ample cabinets and countertops for food prep. Kitchen flows nicely into the dining room and great room. Through the sliding doors, find yourself in the best backyard party ever! Covered patio, plus the built-in BBQ grill, two smokers and a disc cooker. Great place to enjoy our NM weather. Back inside, Split primary suite, separate shower, garden tub, dual vanities and walk in closet. 2 more good sized bedrooms that share a bathroom. There is an additional flex space that could be used as an office, hobby room or home school. Beautiful Park just down the street, easy access to I-40.

Learn More!

2832 Casa Del Norte Drive NE, Albuquerque, NM 87112

Precious, single-story gem nestled in the Foothills in search of a new owner! Featuring 4 bedrooms, with a possible 5th bedroom or Office, this showcases a 3-year old roof and NEW evaporative cooler, along with Fresh paint, light fixtures and floors, including gorgeous wood-laminate flooring! The primary suite is oversized with an updated en suite and access to the expansive patio where you can take in the peace of the rolling foothills. Cozy up by the fireplace and enjoy the open floorplan that is open to the kitchen and wet bar. Get ready to be home for the holidays!

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.

Many people in Albuquerque may find their homes to be a sanctuary, but for some, it can be quite the opposite. Your home could potentially be making you sick in various ways. Here are some of the most common ways your health could be impacted if your own house is the culprit.

Is the Humidity Too High?

When the humidity in your home exceeds 60%, it creates an ideal environment for mold to thrive. High humidity levels can even lead to mold growth behind your walls. It is important to note that mold can have detrimental effects on your health, such as causing chronic sinus conditions and potentially damaging your nervous system.

When a house is too humid, it can attract dust mites, leading to sleep disorders, allergies, and stomach problems. Conversely, if the home is not humid enough, it can cause respiratory irritation. A humidity level below 40% is considered too low.

To maintain proper humidity levels, you can use a humidity monitor and ensure it stays between 40-60%. Running fan vents while cooking or showering and opening windows for ventilation are also effective. If necessary, a dehumidifier can be used.

Excessive Dust

Cleaning your house goes beyond just making it look nice. It is important to keep your home free of dust due to the potential health effects it can have. Dust can contain dust mites, which can be irritating to both the eyes and nasal passages.

Dust mites can compromise the immune system and gradually diminish its strength. Additionally, dust has the ability to accumulate outdoor pollutants, including harmful pesticides and herbicides that pose a threat to our nervous systems.

To reduce dust, vacuum regularly and ensure the vacuum filter is clean. Consider adding a HEPA filter to your HVAC system and avoid wearing shoes indoors. Wash bedding, drapes, and stuffed animals frequently.

Heating and Cooling Systems

HVAC systems can be a source of illness due to the presence of bacteria and mold in the ductwork caused by water accumulation from cooling. These contaminants can lead to coughing, allergies, asthma, and headaches.

To avoid this issue, it is recommended to have air ducts professionally cleaned every few years. Additionally, regular servicing of your heating system will improve its cleanliness and efficiency.

Damp Areas

Damp areas in your home, such as basements and bathrooms, can be detrimental to your health. Mold, mildew, and bacteria can contribute to "sick building syndrome." Any presence of water or condensation in your home increases the risk of mold-related health issues.

To ensure the integrity of your house, inspect the exterior for gaps, leaks, and holes. Confirm that your gutters effectively redirect water away from your home. Regularly examine drains and plumbing fixtures. Additionally, monitor indoor humidity levels as they can indicate condensation problems.

Lack of Ventilation

It is common for people to tightly seal their homes to save on energy bills. However, indoor air tends to be dirtier than outdoor air, making ventilation necessary. Opening windows and doors occasionally when weather permits is one way to achieve this. Additionally, using fan vents while cooking or bathing can help pull air outside. Another option is installing an air-to-air heat exchange for mechanical ventilation.

Toxic Products

The products used in your home may contain indoor pollutants that can stick to surfaces. These pollutants can be found in carpeting, manufactured wood, upholstery, and cleaning supplies. To reduce exposure to toxins, it is important to read labels and be mindful of the products you bring into your home.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

75 Woodland Drive, Tijeras, NM 87059

True Adobe Custom home by Terry Taggert on approximately 5.5 acres with post and beam, 1-2' thick adobe walls, passive solar design. Featuring paid for solar panels, & wood stove to make this home truly energy efficient. Panoramic views from several 'floor to ceiling' windows! Beautiful brick flooring; Chef's kitchen with stainless steel appliances & maple cabinets. Primary suite features walk in closet and updated 3/4 bath. Fenced in dog area. Huge detached garage appx 600 ft. can easily hold three cars also has a workshop area. In addition there is an Another heated and insulated huge garage appx 1225 ft. that makes a perfect Barn for ALL animals and horses, Or perfect for working on cars storing ATVs, etc. With over 5 acres of level land it is perfect for all animals and horses.

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

When buying a home in Albuquerque, the term "escrow" will come up frequently. Escrow is a legal arrangement where a third party holds money or property until certain conditions are met. In real estate transactions, escrows provide protection for both buyers and sellers.

An escrow account is established as part of your mortgage terms to hold funds for homeowner's insurance and taxes. Additionally, escrow accounts can be used to safeguard a good faith deposit, ensuring that the funds are allocated correctly based on the sale conditions. In this blog, we will focus on the escrow account used throughout the duration of your loan.

Escrow Accounts When You Borrow Money

When you borrow money to buy a home, whether from a bank or direct mortgage lender, you will be given an escrow account. This account serves as a place for the lender to deposit a portion of your monthly mortgage payment that will cover insurance premiums and taxes. The purpose of the escrow account is to ensure that you do not fall behind on your obligations to your insurance provider or the government by collecting a part of those costs every month.

How It Works

When obtaining a mortgage loan, lenders typically mandate the establishment of an escrow account. This account serves to mitigate risk and ensure timely payment of annual homeowner's insurance premiums and property taxes. Although these expenses are paid on an annual basis, the lender requires a monthly fraction to be paid, with the remaining balance accumulating in the escrow account.

Having unpaid insurance or taxes can result in liens during foreclosure, making it more difficult for lenders to recoup the initial loan. As a result, lenders have a vested interest in ensuring that borrowers stay current on these non-mortgage homeownership expenses.

As the borrower, there are downsides to this arrangement. Your lender typically mandates a minimum balance in the escrow account to safeguard against potential cost hikes. Most lenders require you to maintain at least two months' worth of expenses in the mortgage escrow account.

When it comes to managing your insurance premiums and taxes, there's a convenient option available. Instead of making separate payments, you can choose to pay a portion of these expenses each month. This amount, along with your principal and interest payments, is collected and held in an escrow account. At the end of the year, the money in the escrow account is used to pay your premiums and taxes.

Escrow payments can be adjusted based on the surplus or shortage in the account for the year's payment. The mortgage holder is required to send an annual statement regarding the escrow account, which may also be referred to as a mortgage impound account.

Mortgage insurance premiums are required for borrowers who make less than a 20% down payment. These premiums are held in the escrow account along with other payments.

The escrow agent must provide a settlement statement before closing. This statement will detail all final closing costs, as well as fees associated with the home loan, including prepaid and escrow funds.

Escrow accounts do not cover HOA fees or supplemental tax bills. HOA fees and supplemental tax bills are separate expenses that homeowners are responsible for. Supplemental tax bills can be issued due to new construction or a change in ownership, and the amount cannot be predicted by the lender.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

7508 Calle Montana NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113

Beautiful 5 bedroom Stillbrooke home in highly sought after planned community! Main level features grand open floorplan w/gorgeous custom staircase; new carpet 2019; bright sunny large kitchen opens onto great room and has spacious breakfast nook, updated stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, kitchen island & breakfast bar. Cathedral ceilings & Clerestory windows makes this home bright & light. Flexible floorplan could be 2 living areas: office & 5 bedroom plus loft, OR formal dining, greatroom, 5 bedrooms & loft/ media area. Primary suite on main level has backyard access, spa like en suite & huge walk-in closet. Also, a secondary bedroom on main level plus 3/4 Bath. Upstairs features a huge loft/media room, 3 more very large bedrooms, & additional full bathroom.

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

With Halloween behind us, the holiday season is just around the corner. So now is a great time to ge thee jump on your holiday shopping. And what better way to find the perfect gift than at Albuquerque's holiday shows? Here are a few upcoming holiday gift events to look plan for starting this weekend!

Autumn Arts & Crafts Show

Sat, Nov 4, 10 AM – 3 PM

Rio Rancho Regional Chamber of Commerce
4201 Crestview Dr SE, Rio Rancho, NM

Looking for that unique “handmade in New Mexico” gift for a party or the holiday gift giving time? Have an anniversary or birthday coming up? Shop 25 local juried artists and food trucks at the Annual VACG FALL HOLIDAY ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW, Saturday, November 4, 2023; 10 am – 3 pm at the Rio Rancho Regional Chamber of Commerce building, 4201 Crestview DR SE Rio Rancho, NM 87124 (South Corner of Target on 528). FREE entry

The Art of Gifting

Sat, Nov 11, 10 AM – 4 PM

UNM Continuing Education
1634 University Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM

Discover a fun holiday experience and find one-of-a-kind, locally handmade gifts from New Mexico artists and vendors. By supporting our local creatives and small businesses, you not only contribute to our community and economy, but also create a more personalized gift giving experience this holiday season.

In addition to the over 100 local artists vendors, there will be unique and fun workshops onsite so you can make your own crafts.

• Free entrance
• Gift making workshops
• Free and easy parking
• Convenient location
• Wide variety of artists
• Over 100+ local vendors
• Food trucks

23rd Annual Rio Grande Arts & Crafts Festival

Sat, Nov 25 | 10 AM – 5 PM

Flea Market at Expo New Mexico
6699 Domingo Rd NE, Albuquerque, NM

The 23rd Annual Rio Grande Holiday Show is a beloved event in Albuquerque, drawing attendees year after year. With 190 artists and craftsmen showcasing their work, live music performances, and a variety of festive food options, there is something for everyone to enjoy. This three-day event begins on November 24th, Friday, at 10am and runs through Sunday the 26th. It is the perfect opportunity to get into the holiday spirit while finding unique gifts for your loved ones.

The Holiday Market at the Rail Yards

Dec 9th-10th | 10a-4p

The Holiday Market at the Rail Yards in Albuquerque is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. This event promotes local businesses and encourages a safe shopping experience during the holiday season. Attendees can expect a wide variety of vendors offering delicious homemade food and high-quality handmade crafts. This year marks the 9th annual Holiday Market, which has become a beloved tradition for Albuquerque residents who value supporting local businesses and embracing the spirit of giving.

The event brings food, art, and music together for the Holidays. Sample New Mexico's finest cuisine, peruse all the local gifts, and give back to your community at our Donation Station.

Holly Days Craft Fair

Sat, Nov 4, 9 AM – 3 PM

Grace Church
6901 San Antonio Dr NE, Albuquerque, NM

Over 100 vendors of handmade crafts, plus music and food for a 2-day extravaganza to kick off the holiday gift shopping season!

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

7508 Calle Montana NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113

Beautiful 5 bedroom Stillbrooke home in highly sought after planned community! Main level features grand open floorplan w/gorgeous custom staircase; new carpet 2019; bright sunny large kitchen opens onto great room and has spacious breakfast nook, updated stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, kitchen island & breakfast bar. Cathedral ceilings & Clerestory windows makes this home bright & light. Flexible floorplan could be 2 living areas: office & 5 bedroom plus loft, OR formal dining, greatroom, 5 bedrooms & loft/ media area. Primary suite on main level has backyard access, spa like en suite & huge walk-in closet. Also, a secondary bedroom on main level plus 3/4 Bath. Upstairs features a huge loft/media room, 3 more very large bedrooms, & additional full bathroom.

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

An open floorplan is often touted as the top preference for Albuquerque home buyers on real estate shows. While it has its advantages, it may not be suitable for everyone. It is crucial to consider the potential downsides that may have been overlooked.

What is Open-Concept?

An open-concept floorplan is characterized by spacious, interconnected rooms that serve multiple functions within a single space. This layout is particularly beneficial for smaller homes with limited square footage. In contrast, larger Albuquerque homes may not require an open-concept plan as each individual room is already sizable.

Homes constructed prior to the 1990s typically featured significant division between rooms, while the open floorplan gained popularity in the 2000s.                      

The Pros of Open-Concept

The following are some of the upsides of a wide-open living area.

• Having a family, especially with young children, an open-concept floorplan can provide numerous benefits. It allows for easy togetherness and enables parents to keep a watchful eye on their kids while attending to other tasks such as cooking. The open layout fosters a sense of togetherness and promotes a more connected family dynamic.
• Open floorplans are beneficial for maximizing space utilization. They allow for the conversion of underutilized areas, such as formal dining rooms, into functional spaces. By adopting an open floorplan, all available space can be effectively utilized.
• If you entertain, open floorplans are undoubtedly ideal for you.
• Taking out walls or having a design with limited interior walls allows for more natural light, and you can get outdoor views.

The Cons of Open-Concept

Again, while people rave about open-concept living, it’s not right for everyone. Downsides include:

• Having older children or multiple generations in your household may lead you to desire the privacy that smaller rooms can provide. On the other hand, if you have a nanny or a similar arrangement, an open-concept layout can bring everyone together in a way that may not be your preference.
• Open-concept living spaces can pose a challenge for those who enjoy showcasing items on their walls. With fewer walls available, the opportunity to display art or collectibles becomes limited. This can be particularly frustrating for art collectors who desire more rooms and walls to exhibit their pieces.
• Having enclosed rooms can be extremely helpful if you have kids who regularly make a mess. This allows you to contain the mess to one room more easily, preventing it from spilling into other living areas.
• Noise travels a great deal in open-concept plans.
• You may want rooms that are dedicated to specific, individual uses. For example, maybe you want a home office, a workout room, or a crafts room.

If you’re deciding on a new home or thinking about renovations, it doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing with open-concept.

In some homes, there is a middle ground when it comes to the layout. For instance, the living area and kitchen may be open to one another, while the dining area is separate. Alternatively, partial walls can be used to create some separation between spaces without completely closing them off.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

5516 Laredo Road NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144

WOW! Incredible views of the Sandia Mountains!! Beautifully maintained, traditionally classic home! 4BDR/4BA plus 2 large bonus rooms; perfect for second living room/den/playroom/office!! Secondary bdrs w/Jack-N-Jill bath! Gorgeous Pella windows w/spectacular views! TWO new refrig air units (2023)! Re-stuccoed (2023)! Roof (2020)! Elegant entry, grand staircase, formal dining & living room. TWO Primary Suites; one on the main floor, one upstairs w/balcony showcasing panoramic views! Laundry room upstairs. Classic kitchen has granite countertops, LG SS appls, storage pantries & bkfst nook. Half circle drive, 2CG, large expanded lot for RV, rec vehicles, extra parking! Great location in mid Rio Rancho, parks, schools, shopping, Intel, Presbyterian Rust Hospital, Rail Runner to SF!

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

Student loan debt in the U.S. is skyrocketing, growing at a rate six times faster than the country's economy. With over 43 million student borrowers in debt, the average debt load per person is a staggering $39,351.

Carrying student loan debt can have several negative impacts on your life, one of which is its effect on your ability to secure a mortgage and buy a home. Here are some specific details you should be aware of regarding how your student loan debt can affect your borrowing ability.

Does Student Loan Debt Affect Your Ability to Buy a Home Directly?

Mortgage rates are currently at historic lows, making it an opportune time to consider purchasing a home, particularly for those who are currently renting. It is important to note that student loan debt can impact both your eligibility for a mortgage and the interest rate you receive.

When it comes to getting a mortgage, having student loan debt doesn't impact your eligibility any differently than other types of debt.

Credit card debt and student loan debt have similar impacts on your financial situation. Both require repayment and are taken into consideration by lenders when reviewing mortgage applications. Lenders assess your ability to handle additional monthly payments based on your existing obligations.

If you qualify under the lender’s standards, they’ll decide on an interest rate.

Having student loan debt doesn’t automatically disqualify you from getting a mortgage, but it can.

Debt-to-Income Ratio

When it comes to student loan debt or any other financial obligation, the critical issue lies in how it impacts the debt-to-income ratio. This ratio is used to determine if you can manage your current payments and take on a new one for a home loan.

To calculate your debt-to-income ratio, add your current debt payments and anticipated mortgage, then divide by your gross monthly income. Gross monthly income is your earnings before deductions and taxes.

Having a debt-to-income ratio over 43% will likely result in mortgage loan denial, as most lenders have this threshold. It is recommended to aim for a ratio of 36% or lower. Additionally, experts suggest that monthly mortgage payments should not exceed 28% of your income.

When considering your financial situation, it is important to focus on your monthly debt obligations rather than the total amount of debt you have.

Flexibility in Payments

Changing your student loan repayment plan, such as opting for a graduated or extended repayment plan, can be a viable option to qualify for a mortgage with student loan debt. This is particularly beneficial if you have federal student loans. While you will still need to pay the same principal amount, opting for a different repayment plan can result in a lower monthly payment, which can help reduce your debt-to-income ratio. Keep in mind that this approach will extend the time it takes to pay off your loans.

FHA Changes

In the summer of 2021, an announcement was made regarding a change in the calculation of student loan debt as part of the debt-to-income ratio for FHA loans. This change aims to facilitate the process of obtaining an FHA loan for homebuyers with student loan debt.

Before the recent changes, FHA lenders were required to calculate a borrower's monthly student loan payment by using 1% of the outstanding balance. However, under the new guidelines, the monthly payment amount used in calculating debt-to-income is now based on the borrower's actual student loan payment, which is often lower. This change aims to provide a more accurate representation of a homebuyer's financial situation and make homeownership more accessible.

Effects on Credit Scores

Having student loan debt can impact your ability to qualify for a mortgage due to your debt-to-income ratio. Additionally, your credit score, which is influenced by your existing debt, is taken into consideration by mortgage lenders.

An FHA loan could be a viable option for individuals with a low credit score. These loans are accessible even if your score is as low as 500, allowing you to afford a 10% down payment.

Overall, student loans don’t inherently affect your ability to get a mortgage, but in multiple indirect ways, they can and do.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

5516 Laredo Road NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144

WOW! Incredible views of the Sandia Mountains!! Beautifully maintained, traditionally classic home! 4BDR/4BA plus 2 large bonus rooms; perfect for second living room/den/playroom/office!! Secondary bdrs w/Jack-N-Jill bath! Gorgeous Pella windows w/spectacular views! TWO new refrig air units (2023)! Re-stuccoed (2023)! Roof (2020)! Elegant entry, grand staircase, formal dining & living room. TWO Primary Suites; one on the main floor, one upstairs w/balcony showcasing panoramic views! Laundry room upstairs. Classic kitchen has granite countertops, LG SS appls, storage pantries & bkfst nook. Half circle drive, 2CG, large expanded lot for RV, rec vehicles, extra parking! Great location in mid Rio Rancho, parks, schools, shopping, Intel, Presbyterian Rust Hospital, Rail Runner to SF!

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

Just listed! If you're in the market for an Albuquerque home that features stunning views both inside and out, these latest featured listings from the Sandi Pressley team will certainly fit the bill. But don't wait too long to view these amazing properties, as they are sure to sell fast with all these amazing features!

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

Stunning views of the Sandia's and balloon fiesta, Immaculate home, newer carpet,jetted tub, newer windows in living room area 2021, finished oversized garage, walkin pantry, and this will amaze you. Seller completely regraded backyard, newlandscaping and WOW, a custom built, heated, 1000 sq ft work shop with 12' ceilings, 10'door, with electricity, insulated. You can work in the workshop and look outside andview the balloons...Dont pass up the opportunity to own this wonderful and makenew memories.

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5516 Laredo Road NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144

WOW! Incredible views of the Sandia Mountains!! Beautifully maintained, traditionally classic home! 4BDR/4BA plus 2 large bonus rooms; perfect for second living room/den/playroom/office!! Secondary bdrs w/Jack-N-Jill bath! Gorgeous Pella windows w/spectacular views! TWO new refrig air units (2023)! Re-stuccoed (2023)! Roof (2020)! Elegant entry, grand staircase, formal dining & living room. TWO Primary Suites; one on the main floor, one upstairs w/balcony showcasing panoramic views! Laundry room upstairs. Classic kitchen has granite countertops, LG SS appls, storage pantries & bkfst nook. Half circle drive, 2CG, large expanded lot for RV, rec vehicles, extra parking! Great location in mid Rio Rancho, parks, schools, shopping, Intel, Presbyterian Rust Hospital, Rail Runner to SF!

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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.