I grew-up in the Southeast Heights, I would estimate the commute to be about 20min to UNM on a bad day... as you would probably use Central as your main artery.
I have a buddy that lives in Ventana Ranch West... which (as of Christmas) the furthest the burbs go. I would estimate that as a 30min commute, but because the West Side is a giant mess... it may take longer than that.
Taylor Ranch, Ladera, Paradise Hills... all about the same quality housing and distance.
Have you looked into any Petroglyph areas?
What about the new development near Journal Pavilion/ Mesa del Sol? here's their website...
Find a Home
You can live in the North East Heights just as easily ya know. Paseo-to-freeway-to-UNM = easy
One last thing... that I've been considering myself...
It would be easy to live in Bernalillo and just take the Rail Runner to work/school... if you work downtown.
Route Map - New Mexico Rail Runner Express