Albuquerque Neighborhoods

Albuquerque Neighborhood Drive-by–Ciudad Vista

January 16, 2018 by The Sugar Team

Ciudad-Vista-Albuquerque-Real-Estate-The-Sugar-Team A bicyclist adorned in an absurdly tight, aerodynamic and pastel-colored outfit zips down Tramway Boulevard. An older couple sets out on a trail, meandering towards the Embudo Trail trailhead. A dog-walker ambles forward with her brown Labrador, stopping to sniff every last bush, tree and shiny object on the ground. The Bus #11 Lomas travels down Turner Drive with its one passenger, preparing to make its end-of-the-line U-turn and head West again on Lomas Boulevard. Is this the scene of a Norman Rockwell painting, set in 2018? No, this is just a description of Albuquerque’s residential foothill neighborhood Ciudad Vista on a typical Friday Afternoon.

Despite its peaceful, suburban vibe, one of Ciudad Vista’s major draw is its conveniently accessible location. Greater Ciudad Vista is situated East of Tramway, West of the Sandia Mountains, South of Lomas and North of Copper, and it consists of the micro neighborhoods Grenada Hills, City View Estates and Eastrange-Piedra Vista. The ‘hood is a mere three minutes (maybe four?) from the entrance to Interstate 40, and the #11 bus travels the length of Albuquerque, making its U-turn on Turner, the central spine of Ciudad Vista.

Ciudad-Vista-Albuquerque-Real-Estate

Albuquerque-Real-Estate-Ciudad-Vista-The-Sugar-Team But perhaps the key to Ciudad Vista’s draw is in the name itself. In Spanish “ciudad vista” means “city view,” which is only part of the story. In addition to beautiful views of the twinkling city lights from many of Ciudad Vista’s homes, the area also attracts residents because of its mountain views, hiking paths and overall walkability.

What sets Ciudad Vista apart from other Albuquerque foothill communities is the fact that it maintains its top-shelf amenities while keeping real estate relatively affordable. For example, in 2017 the Median Sales Price was $219,000; the Average Sales Price was $235,460; the Average Price per Square Foot was 119.65 and the Average Number of Days on the Market was 41.

You will find it to be an absolute delight driving through Ciudad Vista, because the lion’s share of Ciudad-Vista-Albuquerque-Real-Estate-The-Sugar-Team homes has a Southwest flair without being cookie-cutter. Most of the homes are single-story, and the architectural repertoire consists of Pueblo Style, Territorial Style, Northern New Mexico and then Brick Ranch.

For these reasons Sutter of The Sugar Team decided to buy his own home in this wonderful neighborhood.

If you would like to buy or sell a home in Ciudad Vista, and work with a Realtor® who lives, works, and knows the area give him a call (505) 850-9977!

Explora!, Albuquerque’s Science Museum: the Perfect Marriage of Science and Art

January 31, 2017 by The Sugar Team

Albuquerque-Real-Estate-The-Sugar-Team On Albuquerque’s Museum Row we have the privilege of enjoying Explora! Albuquerque’s science museum designed to appeal to scientists (or budding scientists!) of all ages. Please enjoy our little presentation that touches upon some of The Sugar Team’s favorite exhibits at Explora! as well as one of the many reasons we absolutely love ‘Burque!

These are a Few of My Favorite Things…The Sound of Holiday Musica in Albuquerque.

December 29, 2015 by The Sugar Team

Tumbleweed snowman. Bizcochitos. Ordering your enchiladas “Christmas.” These are some of the fascinating things you will find in New Mexico during the holidays, and specifically in Albuquerque. There are many truly joyful events that happen throughout our wonderful city during the month of December that you absolutely will not find anywhere else.

Kicking off the holiday season in Albuquerque’s cultural epicenter Nob Hill, the Shop and Stroll closes the streets to vehicles in this fabulous neighborhood, giving patrons the opportunity to walk the streets and shop locally until late. During the Shop and Stroll shoppers enjoy the opportunity to ride in pedicabs, take in street performers, enjoy the excellent cuisine in Nob Hill’s restaurants and of course, shop! This year is extra-special because Nob Hill is abuzz, celebrating its one hundredth year anniversary.

While New York City has its Rockefeller Center and the Lighting of The Tree, so does Albuquerque, but in Old Town. Old Town is more steeped in history than 100 Rockefeller Center, as it dates back to 1706 when founded by the Spanish. Even today Old Town keeps its Spanish roots, preserving a central plaza and gazebo—Mariachis included of course!—, surrounded by historic golden-colored adobe buildings and the San Felipe de Neri Church. Just one day after the Shop and Stroll the mayor lights the tree in Old Town and wishes peace and joy on all observing Burqueños.

The third day of celebrations brings us back to Nob Hill to witness the Twinkle Light Parade, The Sugar Team’s all-time favorite. This year there are 96 participants floating down the street with the one requirement that every entrant—whether it be a clown, bicycle or low-rider—be bedazzled with twinkle lights. The culmination of live music, red and green flashing lights and overall kitschiness provides a scintillating experience for the senses.

However, the Twinkle Light Parade really doesn’t own the market on quirkiness in ‘Burque. Just the second year running, the Rail Yards in Albuquerque’s Barelas neighborhood hosts their Rail Yards Holiday Market. Located in the historic Blacksmith Shop which was completed in 1917, it has often been the backdrop for many Hollywood productions. Albuquerque is pushing to convert this locale into a public market similar to what is found in cities like Barcelona and Los Angeles. It is a great place to purchase local crafts, homemade chow and unusual souvenirs.

On Christmas Eve there is a gorgeous tradition that takes place yearly here in Albuqerque and dates back more than 300 years: Luminarias. Luminarias are brown paper sacks filled with sand and a votive candle. Historically, nuevomexicanos lit the candles on December 24th to welcome the Christ child into the world. Today Albuquerque’s older neighborhoods like Old Town, North Valley, South Valley and Country Club place these ethereal decorations to adorn their walkways, churches and homes. I promise you, you don’t have to be religious to appreciate this beautiful detail.

Last but not least, we have the River of Lights. The River of Lights is an exhibit of visual light sculptures throughout the ABQ BioPark Botanical Garden running from the end of November through the beginning of January. Although many other cities host a similar event, Albuquerque’s has been running strong for 19 years and simply is the best. Where else can you find gorgeous light representations of a barrel of 14 monkeys, a butterfly bush, eight dragonflies, three cow skulls and a hot air balloon? The River of Lights is the perfect holiday conclusion following the excess of egg nog, spicy tamales and ugly Christmas sweaters. And it really is a pleasure to meander along the illuminated botanical garden paths, delightfully discovering what new “creature” has been rendered in lights.

So there you have it…Albuquerque during the holidays. From the unique shopping opportunities of Nob Hill’s Shop and Stroll, historic Old Town’s Lighting of the Tree, the scintillating Twinkle Light Parade, quirky Holiday Market at the Rail Yards, ethereal Luminarias, to the River of Lights, Albuquerque has something for everyone at this time of year. And that is why The Sugar Team is so proud to call “The Duke City” home. Call us today (505) 850-9977 if you would like to work with a Realtor® that loves Albuquerque as much as we do!

Albuquerque Twinkle Light Parade

December 14, 2015 by The Sugar Team

The Sugar Team presents this clip of Albuquerque’s Twinkle Light Parade, taking place in the Nob Hill neighborhood.

Albuquerque Nob Hill Shop and Stroll

December 13, 2015 by The Sugar Team

Albuquerque’s Neighborhood Drive-by–Embudo Canyon

January 21, 2015 by The Sugar Team

Here in Albuquerque one of the most gorgeous events to experience is the Sandia Mountains changing color from bright orange to pink, and then finally to burgundy as the sun sets. Of course, most Burqueños can savor a good New Mexico sunset from just about anywhere in Albuquerque, but in the Embudo Canyon neighborhood the Sandias take center stage. What sets Embudo Canyon apart from other parts of town is its warm embrace of the Sandias through hiking trails, biking trails and views while remaining extremely accessible.

Embudo Canyon’s location couldn’t be more ideal. Even though it’s tucked into the Foothills, removed from the hub-bub of the city, you can quickly jump onto Tramway, Lomas or Interstate 40 and get anywhere in town. The western boundary is defined by Tramway and the majestic Sandias to the East. To the North, Embudo Canyon reaches as far as the Embudo arroyo. The Southern boundary roughly runs diagonally North-east along Lomas Boulevard. If you looked at the shape of the neighborhood you would say it resembles the “pistol formation” in football.

However football is not how Embudo Canyonians get their exercise, but rather biking and hiking. The extensive bike path shoots up Tramway from Central all the way to Sandia Pueblo. Any day of the week, rain or shine, you will see cyclists from beginners to Ironmen (and women) enjoying the spectacular views as they head up this perfectly maintained bicycle super highway.

The way to get to the trail head is by going East on Indian School road. Just keep driving until you can’t drive any more. From the trail head you will be able to embark on some of the most picturesque trails in the Greater Albuquerque Area, winding their way around the folds of the mountains.

Unlike the Foothill neighborhoods to the North, real estate in Embudo Canyon is much more affordable. However, it is a fairly large and established community with approximately 1100 homes and a proud neighborhood association that has been in operation for twenty years.

For the entire year of 2014 43 homes sold in Embudo Canyon. During that time the Average Price per Square Foot was $119.30 and the Average Number of Days on the Market was 86. Finally, the Average Sales Price was $248,308

Keeping in mind the incredible quality of life Embudo Canyon has to offer, this neighborhood provides an incredible bang for your buck: Views. Hiking. Bicycle riding. Accessibility. Affordability. And that’s why The Sugar Team has decided to call Embudo Canyon home!

Embudo Canyon Useful Links:

Albuquerque’s Neighborhood Drive-by–Nob Hill

March 25, 2014 by The Sugar Team

A young lady shops for a “cute” skeleton mask in preparation for the upcoming Día de los Muertos celebration. Across the street a teenage boy sifts through racks of pants, looking for the perfect pair of vintage jeans. A university professor conducts a seminar with some graduate student about Don Quixote over a delicious pint of IPA craft beer. A few blocks down the road an older couple celebrates their 50th wedding anniversary over a caprese salad and handmade, prosciutto-filled ravioli. All this activity and it’s only Thursday! This can only be described as the typical setting you will find in the Nob Hill neighborhood, Albuquerque’s shopping, social, gastronomical and intellectual epicenter.

Developed in the 1920’s and located along Albuquerque’s old Route 66, Nob Hill attributes its hip and cool atmosphere to its proximity to the University of New Mexico, historic Spruce Park and Ridgecrest. Located in the heart of the city, Nob Hill’s borders are roughly defined by Lomas to the North, Garfield to the South, Washington to the East and Girard to the West. Because of its convenient location and ideal mixture of commercial and residential properties many describe Nob Hill as one of the only walk-able neighborhoods in town.

Due to its cultural draw tourists choose Nob Hill as their prime destination when visiting Albuquerque. And when homebuyers look to purchase real estate in Albuquerque they inevitably look to Nob Hill as a solid investment.

Nob Hill’s real estate data truly speaks for itself. Going back a year and analyzing the data as of March 23, 2014 for detached single-family homes the Average Sales Price was $266,253 the Average Price per Square Foot was $169.02 and the Average Days on the Market was only 57. Compare those numbers to the entire Albuquerque Area where the Average Sales Price was $209,931 the Average Price per Square Foot was $103.21 and Average Days on the Market was 85 (Greater Albuquerque Association of Realtors®).

Distinguishing itself from homes in other parts of town, Nob Hill properties project pure character. Here is where you can you find gleaming hardwood floors, sultry coved ceilings and crackling wood burning fireplaces. To wit, The Sugar Team is offering a gorgeous home located on 413 Morningside DR SE in the heart of Nob Hill. Watch the Virtual Tour to truly enjoy its character:

Nob Hill Useful Links:On a personal note, The Sugar Team has a deep, close connection with Nob Hill. I graduated from the University of New Mexico in 1999 and lived right on Jefferson while going to grad school. I biked or walked to UNM every day as I didn’t have (nor needed) a car. Presently, all of my favorite Albuquerque restaurants are located right in the neighborhood, whether I’m in the mood for Italian, French, Greek, Thai, Vietnamese, Venezuelan or Pub food. ¡Viva Nob Hill!

Mossman: a Builder’s Delight in Albuquerque

August 1, 2013 by The Sugar Team

-A Mossman is built like a tank.

-The best builder in Albuquerque is Mossman.

-Mossmans are known for their quality of construction.

-Nothing holds their value better than a Mossman.

These are all stereotypical comments you will hear uttered by a homebuyer, seller or Realtor®. Regardless if they are true or not, there definitely is a buzz in Albuquerque for Mossman-Gladden homes. But what is the reason? What is there about Mossman construction in Albuquerque that is so different from other builders?

The answer derives from the Mossman-Gladden Custom Deluxe Homes founder Fred A. Mossman. A rancher from South Dakota with only an eighth grade education, Mossman built a barn at age 19, and then went on to build wooden highway bridges and Safeway stores for contractor K.L. House throughout the state of New Mexico. From 1948 through 1984 Mossman developed a reputation for specializing and supervising every aspect of building except for electrical work. This left very little to sub-contractors, and the lion’s share of responsibility with Fred Mossman.

Aesthetically, Mossman homes are far superior. Measured by the number of “oohs” and “aaahs” typically expressed by anyone entering one of their homes, you can tell right away people are delighted by Mossman construction. Characteristic design tropes include spacious closets (for the era), ergonomic kitchens, vaulted ceilings, hardwood floors over a crawlspace, custom-crafted fireplaces and brick paneling.

Most Mossman homes are located in Albuquerque’s coveted North East Heights, between Wyoming and San Mateo, East to West, and San Antonio to Menaul, North to South. The specific neighborhoods where you will find a Mossman have ethereal names like Stardust Skies, Highland North and bear Canyon Village. Roughly, a grand total of 7,500 Mossman-Gladden homes were built here in Albuquerque.

But do Mossman homes retain their value better than others? Looking at the area of Albuquerque where Mossmans were historically built, for all single-family detached homes that sold from 7/30/12 through 7/30/13, the Average Sales Price was $196,273 and the Average Price per Square Foot was $104.28.

Using the exact same parameters but just for Mossman homes, the Average Sales Price was $224,107 and the Average Price per Square Foot was $109.21. So, the answer to whether Mossmans hold their value better than other homes is a resounding “yes!”

This is why The Sugar Team is so excited to be selling the home at 2912 Madeira DR NE. It’s a beautiful home with gleaming hardwood floors, tongue and groove vaulted ceilings, ample bedrooms and a huge hybrid room which can be used to do laundry, crafts and storage…and, yes it’s a Mossman! Check out the virtual tour to truly delight in the construction:

The Sugar Team Sources:

Albuquerque Neighborhood Drive-by—Ridgecrest

June 7, 2013 by The Sugar Team

A dog walker passes by a beautiful brick colonial, being pulled (dragged?) by a German Shepard and a toy poodle. A brightly colored jogger trots up the luxurious central median, taking advantage of the grassy padding and tree-lined boulevard’s cool shadow. Two moms—pushing strollers which may or may not even contain children—enjoy today’s power walk up Ridgecrest Blvd while prattling on about the latest current events. To the untrained eye this may seem like a made-up neighborhood straight out of a Hollywood movie, but in reality it’s a description of a typical five-minute period of time in Albuquerque’s lovely Ridgecrest neighborhood.

Located in Albuquerque’s South East Heights, Ridgecrest is a historic residential neighborhood–also containing the Parkland Hills area–that sits right smack-dab in the middle of town. Roughly, its Western-most boundary is Carlisle with Silver to the North, Gibson to the South and San Mateo to the East. And even though its gorgeous tree-lined streets, darling mid-century moderns, bungalows and Santa Fe style homes set it apart from both the busy rat race and sedate suburbia, it still finds itself conveniently close to Nob Hill and University of New Mexico to the North and Kirtland Air Force Base to the South.

What Ridgecrest doesn’t claim is to be a neighborhood with homes that are exorbitantly expensive. According to the GAAR Multiple Listing Service, as of June 6, 2013 for Ridgecrest the Median Sales Price for the year was $190,250; the Average Sales Price was $202,873; and the Average Number of Days on the Market was 61. And the highest sale for the entire year was only $451,000!!

This is why we at The Sugar Team absolutely love Ridgecrest! We love its affordable historic homes built in the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s as well as the mature trees lining the streets. We proudly have two homes for sale–one at 1002 Parkland Cir SE and the other at 1124 Monroe SE–both of which exude the true Ridgecrest character. Check them out! You won’t be disappointed:

Mesa del Sol… but where are the garage doors?

October 9, 2012 by The Sugar Team

“Has alleys”…never have two little words created so much excitement for a Realtor®. Maybe we should explain… The Sugar Team recently was given a tour of Mesa del Sol, a new community located in southern Albuquerque just started in March 2012. We have seen a lot of new communities come and then go in the Greater Albuquerque area for their lack of cohesiveness, affordability, or move towards sustainability, but Mesa del Sol thankfully gets it right. As stated on their Website, the goal of Mesa del Sol is to create, “a new place designed to celebrate art, industry, the individual and the community, Mother Nature and common sense.”

Mother Nature seems to play a prominent role in Mesa del Sol’s 12,900 acres of land, where 3,200 are devoted exclusively to parks, trails and natural space. Viewed from above, the community–based on the Stapleton Model—resembles spokes of a wheel with each spoke radiating to a different place of importance. Every home is certified Energy Star 3.0 and classified NM Green Build Silver, and according to the developer of Mesa del Sol, Forest City the average home in the community is designed to use 34% less water than the average Albuquerque home.

Unlike other new communities, Mesa del Sol is situated in the city limits of Albuquerque. It finds itself within approximately 15 minutes of three grocery stores, Nob Hill and five minutes of UNM Golf Course. And also unlike other communities, Mesa del Sol attempts to fold industry and schools right into its residential climate. As a result, Fidelity, Molina Health Care, Albuquerque Studios, and Rose’s tablecafé all work shoulder-to-shoulder with Mesa del Sol while the K-7 International School continues to educate some 250 pupils.

What most sets Mesa del Sol apart is its commitment to the “traditional neighborhood design,” completely self-evident in its eclectic architecture. Gone are the cookie-cutter repeats found in suburbia. Rather, Mesa boasts five different home collections ranging from 1100 to 3000+ square feet with prices ranging from the mid $100s to the $300s. Having experienced a private tour, we found the architectural diversity to be quite fascinating, covering everything from traditional bungalows and contemporary cool townhomes reminiscent of Nob Hill to more majestic Spanish Revival and traditional Pueblos.

Even the Home Owner Association’s (HOA) philosophy promotes one’s individuality. At only $45 per month the HOA covers the maintenance of parks, common areas and front yards while not restricting one’s artistic expression in terms of choice of exterior paint color. But what most differentiates Mesa is its alleys…

What you will notice when driving down the streets of Mesa del Sol is that none of the garage doors face the front. Instead, the homes have 100% alley-loaded garages and driveways. The reasoning behind this is both aesthetic and social. Aesthetic, because no one can dismiss how insipid and cold a big, white rectangular garage door can be greeting every new visitor. Social, because care has gone into making large, inviting front porches like in traditional, community-oriented neighborhoods.

Nonetheless, Mesa del Sol still has some kinks that need to be ironed out. As we are just coming out of a recession, there is clearly risk involved in investing in any brand-new community, and approaching this as a “sure-thing” would be naïve at best. To date, only 40 homes have been built, eight of which are model homes and only eight are presently occupied. However, Mesa del Sol seems to be analyzing the short term and the long term as good as (or better than) any other developer. And Mesa continues to be forward thinking, planning a community pool in the summer of 2013 and volley ball courts, dog parks etc. throughout their extensive park corridors. One thing is clear; in comparison to any other new development, this community is impressive and absolutely merits a visit.

Just contact us at The Sugar Team, and we’ll take care of the rest!