Searching for the perfect home in Albuquerque is just like shopping for anything else. You need to figure out what you want, do research, and zero in on the home you want at the right price.
Here’s a few tips to help you pin down the right home for you in Albuquerque.
Research before you look.
Make a list of the features you want and decide which are wants and needs. Then look at different neighborhoods you want to live in and determine which are best based on commute time, schools, recreation, crime, and price. You can check our Community Guides to learn more about Albuquerque and the surrounding communities.
Then check listings on our website to get an idea of what homes fit your price range in those neighborhoods. Use the results to prioritize your wants and needs so you can add in and weed out properties from the inventory you’d like to view.
Get your finances in order.
The rule of thumb with lenders is that you can afford a home that costs two to three times your gross income. Based on that, you can create a budget to determine how much you can comfortably afford every month. Determine this before you make the offer on the home you want.
Put your financial records together and meet with a lender to get pre-qualified for a loan. Then you’ll know exactly how much of a home you can afford.
The lender won’t necessarily consider the extra fees you’ll pay when you purchase or your plans to begin a family or purchase a new car, so shop in a price range you’re comfortable with. Also, presenting an offer contingent on financing will make your bid less attractive to sellers.
Set a moving timeline.
Do you have blemishes on your credit that will take time to clear up? If you already own, have you sold your current home? If not, you’ll need to factor in the time needed to sell. If you rent, when is your lease up? Do you expect interest rates to jump anytime soon? All these factors will affect your buying, closing, and moving timelines.
Work with a Realtor.
Sandi Pressley is a Realtor you can trust and has been selling real estate for 39 years. Sandi is a member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. NAR has been a champion of home ownership rights for more than a century. Sandi and her dedicated team will help you find the perfect home in Albuquerque.
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!
5000 College Heights Drive NW, Albuquerque, NM 8712 $425,000
4 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms (2 full, 1 half) / 2850 Square Feet
Casual elegance abounds in this beautiful custom home with private courtyard & dramatic functional floor plan featuring 4BDR/2.5BA/3CG! Oversized great room features coffered ceiling, tile flooring, gas fireplace, 8ft stacking patio doors that open up to the amazing outdoor living space w/wood fireplace & covered patio to entertain or relax & enjoy the best of New Mexico weather! Gourmet kitchen features granite countertops, gas cooktop, pot filler, built-in oven, bkfst bar, pantry, island! REFRIG AIR, central vac, skylights, RV Pad! Incredible mst suite on its own wing featuring backyard patio access, jetted tub, sep shower, built-in cabinets in walk-in closet. Beautifully landscaped & walled for privacy. Close to shopping, parks, Bosque trails, easy access across town Montano, I40!
Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details!
Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team