Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
THE TAOS NEWS
1 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
Evan R. Blish, Broker 575-776-8106
Greg Jaramillo, Associate Broker • (575) 770-1270 Jolie Jones, Qualifying Broker • (575) 741-0603 Website: pinoninvestmentsoftaos.com E-mail: pinoneb@newmex.com
BlueBerry hill
TaOS Ski Valley
Drop dead gorgeous 3 bed/2 bath adobe home in prime condition, expertly/tastefully landscaped with flagstone rockwork and colorful plantings all on drip. Living room has high ceilings and amazing Taos Mountain views. Home features separate floor plan with private view filled master suite w/ large walk-in and master bath with separate shower and tub. Open kitchen with granite, stainless and alder cabinets. East facing landscaped patio with green space. Expanded heated attached garage has laundry area. MlS #93898 $439,000
A-frame in Taos Ski Valley with easy access to Rubezahl (return trail) this 6 bedroom 3 bath fully furnished and equipped family ski home is the perfect family retreat. Could be used a 3 separate rental units. Hot tub, pool table, multiple decks and 2 car carport. Fire pit. Make this your family retreat. MlS #93639 $450,000
deS MOnTeS
On TOp Of The WOrld.
Remarkable 3/3 adobe home in Des Montes on 3 acres. Vishu Magee designed, G3 constructed. Energy efficient, green home, perfect for the environmentally sensitive. Acoustically perfect living room w/ 20' ceilings. Indoor lap pool. Vigas, split cedar latillas, coved ceilings. Solar, photo voltaic. Travertine marble floors. Spectacular stone and wood work throughout. Cozy outside patio spaces & gazebo. Peace and solitude. Expansive creative environment. Cool! MlS #89352 $1,353,400
This ridge top home sits privately on just under 6 acres on Blueberry Hill. Stunning views in all directions, the house flows openly within and affords lovely outdoor spaces as well. A sense of expansiveness while feeling very private. Two separate office spaces and a heated two car garage. Beautifully maintained grounds. A must see and easy to show. MlS #93604 $799,000
JOLIE JONES qualifying broker
575.776.8106
Gardener's delight!!! Bright and sunny 2BR/2BA with a large loft. CLEAN and spacious large 2 car finished and heated garage with an upstairs room that would be a perfect office, studio or workshop! Gardens, fruit trees, flower beds all on drip irrigation. MlS #93727 $385,000
Sweet 2BR/2BA with a guesthouse on 2 acres close to town! Lovely koi pond with a waterfall in the backyard of the main house. Wonderful storage shed and views, views, views!!! MlS #93859 $295,000
Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
2 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
PROTECT YOUR HOME
letter from the editor
Welcome to Beautiful Northern New Mexico
AND DISCOVER WHY SO MANY NEW MEXICANS TRUST THEIR HOMES TO WANDA LUCERO
In this issue of Enchanted Homes, we turn our attention to two important rooms in the home: the kitchen and the bathroom. Both spaces are essential to our daily living, and homeowners like them to be designed so they are both attractive and functional. On Page 60, home designer Vishu Magee tells about a “dream kitchen” that was as much about having fun as getting things done. On Page 55, we take a look at four public restrooms in Taos where designers have taken care to make them as much a part of the whole building’s design as possible. ©Chad Lewis
Wanda Lucero, Agent 211 Kit Carson Road ¼ mile East of Taos Plaza Taos, NM 87571 575-737-5433 www.WandaLucero.com
In the Featured Home on Page 26, we find out what a chef wants in his own kitchen, as Taos chef Chris Maher and his wife Valerie take us on an intimate tour of the kitchen in their El Salto home. And, Realtors Lisa Cancro and Harvey Blaustein converse on Page 22 about how important a well-appointed kitchen is for the sale of a home. Of course, we have our regular features. Tierra Stoves owner Bob Bishop takes us on his own journey of how he got to Taos, beginning on Page 50. Our featured Realtor, Peter Rommel, of Prudential Taos Real Estate, talks about buying and selling in Taos on Page 48. And, on Page 20 Wolfgang Collins, of Wolfgang Spa Works, answers our Nine Questions. We hope this issue will both entertain and inform you. After all, we spend a whole lot of our waking hours in the kitchen and bathroom!
Michelle M. Gutierrez Enchanted Homes Managing Editor, Creative Director
2010-2013
Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
3 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
Contact us at:
of Taos
Each Office Independently Owned & Operated
575-758-5400 866-737-5400
723 Paseo del Pueblo Sur Taos, New Mexico 87571
We feature all Taos County MLS listings on our website:
www.taosmls.com remax@taos.newmex.com
Foreclosures foreClosure
new listing
short sAle
g din pensAle
greAt loCAtion in CAnon heights, 3 bedrooms 2.5 bath adobe home with detached 2 car garage on 2 acres overlooking the city. Apprx 2765 sq ft, interior was just painted. Mountain, foothill, sunrise and sunset views from extensive flagstone patio. mls 93450 Asking $499,000
Coming soon
gr e At loC Ation in A ngel fir e Chalets. 2 bedroom plus loft, 3 bathrooms, with fireplace in master bedroom and one in living room. Walk to the lifts, shops, restaurants. mls 93312 Asking $115,000
A dd this propert y to your investment portfolio Fabulous opportunity to own income producing property with 4 units in the medical complex area of the Weimer foothills. On 2 acres there is room for expansion Over 5000 square feet in this well maintained building. Current configuration is 4 residential units but property could be converted to professional offices and live/work spaces. This property has it's own well, is on town sewer, all units have a private outdoor space. mls 92640 Asking $515,900
new listing
good loCAtion g din pensAle
gr eAt loCAtion in tow n with 2042 sq feet on 1 acre. Beautiful setting with many trees and great mountain views. 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, withcozy dining room, fire place in living room, and sun room for passive solar heat gain and all your geraniums. Large master suite is upstairs, apprx 700 sq feet with stunning mountain views. Call for list price. AdoBe home
3 Bedrooms 2.5 BAths with elegant front entry, gourmet kitchen, sunken intimate living room with stone fireplace, 3067 sq feet on .75 acres. Lots of deck space with 1 car garage. Close to golfing, skiing, fishing, hiking and biking. Call for list price mls 93520 Asking $334,500.
2 Bedroom, 1 BAth, approx 960- sq feet, in town, with l car carport. Good location with mountain views, close to schools, hospital and medical facilities, banking, restaurants. In redemption mls 93402 Asking $124,900
Coming soon
new listing
Large in town home with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and basement, attached 2 car garage. Ideal location near storyteller theatre. CAll for list priCe.
Vacant lot in town limits, off of paved road, with town sewer and water nearby and mountain views. Located on Camino de la Merced, apprx .95 acres. mls 93884 Asking $53,000
g din pensAle
lovely old AdoBe with double thick walls, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, with 1386 square feet, 3 kiva fireplaces, courtyard walls, nice landscaping, new EID approved conventional septic tank. mls 93348, Asking $149,900
Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
4 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
RE/MAX sells 1 home every 42 seconds! call linda for all your real estate needs
575 770-2786
Linda Valaika, Owner/Broker
Residential PArAdISe IS cLoSer tHAN your tHINK
exceLLeNt reNtAL PoteNtIAL
This studio is off grid and has great mountain views. There is a homesite ready to go. Property is a contemporary twist of off-grid living, completed with an outhouse. Tons of storage and organic farm certifiable. Live in the studio while you build your dream home. This studio embodies the new spirit of the southwest. MLS 93609 Asking $89,900
$1700 /mp. Apprs 2100 sq ft on lst floor with 3 bd/2 ba, apprs 1600 on 2nd floor with 1 BD plus office/bedroom with living room/ kitchen are and 1 BA. Upstairs has separate entrance with a deck. Could be 1 large residence with apprx 3700 sq ft. Rock fireplace, large kitchen downstairs, nicely landscaped with att 2 car garage and 2space carport. MLS 93813 Asking $399,000
HorSe ProPerty
LArge cAbIN IN tHe WoodS
Ne
IS WL
t
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exceLLeNt VALue ANd bIg SKy VIeWS
LArge 3 bedrooM 2 bath home on 1 acre. Well maintained and in move-in condition. Oversized 2 car garage, with workshop space. Low maintenance acre with 360 degree views in all directions. Large covered portal for outdoor living space. . This is a modular home built to HUD standards. MLS# 92335 Asking $199,000.
NeW LIStINg g dIN PeNSALe
3 bd 2 ba home with charming Mexican tile throughout. Detached 2 car garage, heated studio, and horse facilities on 2 acres. Recently remodeled kitchen with cherry cabinets and granite counter tops. Passive solar heat gain with lots of southwestern facing windows. 3rd bedroom can be office or library. Flagstone patio with latilla fencing, kio pond, trees, and lots of garden space. Fenced horse area with water. Stunning mountain, foothill, sunrise and sunset views. Hiking and horse trails nearby. MLS 93458 Asking $399,000
Cabin in immaculate condition with many outdoor living spaces including a meditation bench, a patio with chiminea, and a wood deck around the home. 3 bd, 3 ba, 2587 square feet on 1.6 acres with detached oversized 2 car garage with electricity and wood stove. Cozy living room with vaulted ceilings and fireplace. Large bonus room, sunny dining room, lots of windows, lots of light. Private but only 15 minutes to town MLS 93437 Asking $359,000
10 MINuteS to SKI AreA
NeW LIStINg
greAt VALue 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, apprx 1070 sq ft with tile floors, viga ceilings and a kiva fireplace. Open floorplan, large fenced yart with mountain and foothill views. MLS 93795 ASKINg $169,00 Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
WALK to tHe rIVer from this large, well built cabin in Sipapu. 3 bedrooms, 3 baths with over 2000 square feet, attached oversized 2 car garage, covered porch and deck.Super clean. Nice views of the canyon and forest. Aspen and spruce trees.. MLS 93284 Asking $199,000
cute ANd cozy cAbIN with fantastic views. Lots of windows so the cabin is light and bright with apprx 900 sq ft with 2 bedrooms and l bath, large deck for bbqing, viewing the snow capped Jicarita mountains, or the elk herd in the meadow. MLS 92700 Asking $135,000
5 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
6 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
There is a Difference…
DREAMCATCHER REAL ESTATE
#1 Boutique Real Estate Co. in Taos
EL RITO HOMESTEAD
RENOWNED HISTORIC LANDMARK
g tin s i wl ne
CASA DE LUZ
g tin s i wl ne
Lovely & Comfortable 3,800 sq.ft. 3 bed/3 bath adobe home with splendid touches by ceramic artist in residence. Secluded 5 acres with solid 2,400 sq.ft. workshop w/ radiant heat & bathroom. Solar power back-up and cistern augment the property’s on-grid electric & well. MLS #93821 $479,000
This residence is an architectural experience of historical significance and a near-magical gateway to one of Taos’ most acclaimed artistic periods. Formerly part of the Mabel Dodge Luhan Estate, this now home, guesthouse and studio have many stories to tell of this infamous time in Taos history. MLS #92742 $1,299,000
Light & bright 3 bed/ 2.5 bath home plus guesthouse, studio and exercise room, all with meticulous attention to detail. Secluded location on 3.87 acres with water rights, fruit orchard, organic gardens and mature landscape, yet only minutes to Taos Plaza. MLS #93330 $2,695,000 http://taosnewmexico.com/casa-de-luz/
PREMIER BUILDINg SITES
RIvER FRONTAgE
MODERN ART
2 Desirable lots on quite tree-lined Vigil St., near El Monte Sagrado and ½ mile from Taos Plaza. Best price on in town homesite. R14 zoning. Owner/Broker MLS #93803 Only $49,700!
One of a kind property in the beautiful Amalia valley, just down the road from the Valle Vidal. 2 bed/2bath house on 5 acres with Rio Costilla Frontage. Owner/Broker MLS 88374 $324,900
The award winning architectural design combined with the meticulously manicured grounds adjacent to Pueblo lands, water features and works of art, it truly represents the very best in residential real estate. MLS #93101 $2,990,000 http://taosnewmexico.com/modern-art
18 ACRES IN PILAR
HISTORIC RESTORED CONDO
159 PRISTINE ACRES
g tin s i wl ne
n tio c du re e ic pr
H nc rA n or KH c Bu
Remarkable property of much history and boundless potential. There are 2 houses on the property, one a fixer and the second....well? Year round stream plus pond and irrigation rights. Priced at land value. MLS #93079 $220,000
Casa Encantada #7, a premier 1 bed/1bath condo home is tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood not far from the Historic Taos Plaza. Very low HOA dues. Owner/Broker MLS #93041 $199,700
Year-round stream, abundance of wildlife, majestic stands of Aspen & quiet solitude, located in the beautiful Amalia valley near Valle Vidal National Forest Area. MLS 92187
DREAMCATCHER
R EAL ESTATE COMPANY
www.taosnewmexico.com
Pavel Lukeš Owner/Broker
with over 40 years experience.
We bring your dreams in 8 languages o. 575.758.3606 c. 575.770.1116 e. pavel@taosnewmexico.com Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
7 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
8 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
9 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
welcome | enchanted homes
InsIde
Owner Robin Martin Publisher Chris Baker Editor Joan Livingston Managing Editor/ Creative Director Michelle M. Gutierrez
55
Advertising Manager Chris Wood Sales Manager Chad Lewis Graphic Design Julie Osmanski Jennifer Taphorn Photography Tina Larkin Vishu Magee Contributing Writers Andy Dennison Ted Dimond Teresa Dovalpage Vishu Magee Jim O’Donnell
26
60
in this issue 3
Enchanted Homes Aug/Sept 2013, Vol. XCII
From the Editor
20 9 Questions: Wolfgang Collins, Wolfgang’s Spa Works 22 A conversation with Lisa Cancro & Harvey Blaustein: How kitchens sell homes
55 Charming comfort stations: Four unique Taos restrooms 58 Inside Out: Creative Elements and Furnishings for Your Home 60 Building Green: Reinventing the dream kitchen
26 Feature: A kitchen fit for a great chef
62 Taos County Community Profile
46 Here & There: Real Estate in Taos vs. Carbondale, CO
64 Red River Community Profile
48 Realtor Profile: Peter Rommel, Prudential Realty
66 Angel Fire Community Profile
50 Adventures de Taos: Bob Bishop 52 Enchanted Circle Area Map
65 Taos Ski Valley Community Profile
Cover Art By Roger Hayden Johnson Turquoise Porch, Chair Oil, 34" x 34" Cover is slightly cropped For more information on the artist please visit the gallery website listed below.
Manitou Galleries 505.986.0440 / 800.283.0440 123 West Palace Avenue Santa Fe, NM 87501 www.manitousantafean.com
68 Ted Dimond: Real Estate Finance 69 Business Resources 70
Final Foto
ENCHANTED HOMES IS A PuBLICATION OF
THE TAOS NEWS
Official Relocation Guide for the Taos County Chamber of Commerce, Angel Fire Chamber of Commerce and Red River Chamber of Commerce
Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
226 Albright St., Taos, NM 87571 575.758.2241 • www.taosnews.com
10 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
11 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
TAOS SKI VALLEY REALTY
Your Taos Ski Valley Specialist! : www.TSVRealty.com Keith Dowell, Qualifying Broker : Phone: (575) 776.0600 : #5 Ernie Blake Road, Taos Ski Valley, NM 87525
Land in Taos Ski Valley!
EDELWEISS LODGE AND SPA
TAOS SKI VALLEY’S PREMIER SKI-IN / SKI-OUT CONDOMINIUMS. Luxurious one, two, or three bedroom units available. Turn-key condominiums with great rental history and on-site management. Property amenities include spa, exercise room, hot tub, dry sauna, boot lockers with dryers, owner storage, underground parking, game room, and cafe, bar, and restaurant. Solid HOA with healthy capital reserve. Located at the base of the lifts. MLS# 92692 ......Unit 201 ............. $330,000 .... 1BR / 1BA MLS# 92811 ......Unit 406/407 ..... $725,000 .... 3BR / 3BA MLS# 92812 ......Unit 409/410 ..... $550,000 .... 2BR / 2BA MLS# 92893 ......Unit 202 ............. $375,000 .... 1BR / 2BA MLS# 93774 ......Unit 212 ............. $541,000 .... 2BR / 2BA
SNAKEDANCE CONDOMINIUMS
Elegant ski-in/ski-out condominiums, steps from the slopes. Granite counter tops, stone tile floors, travertine tiles in bath, gas log fireplaces. First class amenities include ski-valet, hot tub/sauna, locker/exercise and massage room, restaurant, bar, and package/convenience/deli store. On site management company with proven record and aggressive promotion make these condos convenient and a great investment. MLS# 89887 ........Unit 309 ....... $349,000 ......... 2BR / 2BA MLS# 92781 ........Unit 406 ....... $489,000 ......... 3BR / 3BA
5 CHIPMUNK LANE
Stunning views. Great building envelope. Compare to Pioneers Glade; twice the SUNLIGHT and HALF the price. Great location. Short walk or drive to skiing. All utilities at property line. MLS# 90054 .................... $247,000
POWDERHORN CONDOMINIUMS
TEMBION CHALET
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! This attractive mountain home is one of the most productive rentals in TSV. The second floor is the main floor with its own four-bedroom residence. The third floor is a special two-bedroom residence. Both floors are well appointed and furnished and can be locked off. First floor has inviting Jacuzzi room and sauna. Upscale property is a great long-term investment. MLS# 84293 Price reduced $1,270,000 to $999,950
Upscale condominium’s in the heart of Taos Ski Valley. Perfectly positioned to benefit future development in the core of TSV. Awesome HOA package with affordable dues. Includes hot tub room, high-speed internet, owner’s locker, laundry facilities, snow removal and ALL UTILITIES!! Proven, on-site management and good rental history. Available units have good variety and price range. All units feature scenic balconies with slopeside views. MLS# 90606.........Unit 305 ........$119,000 ....... Studio Unit MLS# 92472.........Unit 204 ........$181,000 ..........1BR / 1BA MLS# 92781.........Unit 201 ........$229,000 ..........2BR / 2BA
WINNER 2011 DESIGN AWARD
TAOS SKI VALLEY MOUNTAIN HOME
Modern and well built. Designed by architect Rich Wilson. Open great room with high vaulted, aspen tongue and groove ceiling. Efficient radiant heat, and antique round oak wood stove. Jacuzzi tub in guest bathroom. Stream runs through lot. Open space next door. Two covered decks and patio enhance outstanding scenery. Exceptional roof snowmelt system. MLS# 92486 .............$649,000................... 2BR / 2BA Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
American Society of Interior Design of NM Brand new custom remodeled mountain home, short walk to ski trails (ski-in walk-out). Private retreat with easy access to ski valley amenities. Three bedrooms, three bathrooms, 2000 sq. ft. Gourmet kitchen with granite island, fully-equipped for vacation entertaining. Spacious enclosed loft with reading nook. Radiant heat with high-efficiency fireplace. New beginner lift allows access from base area directly across from the chalet. MLS# 93505........................ $779,000
LOTS IN AMIZETTE
Commercial and residential lots available in all prices and sizes. Located on the highway or tucked away from the road. A variety of opportunities available! MLS# 79481 $195,000 .88 acre MLS# 83330 $125,000 .56 acre MLS# 83331 $309,000 1.44 acre MLS# 87732 $780,000 2 acres MLS# 89431 $130,000 .72 acre MLS# 89432 $130,000 .77 acre MLS# 89433 $130,000 .76 acre MLS# 89434 $105,000 .36 acre MLS# 92135 $79,000 .4 acre MLS# 92137 $169,000 .98 acre MLS# 92139 $169,000 1.01 acres MLS# 92140 $219,000 1.41 acres
12 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
TAOS SKI VALLEY REALTY
Your Taos Ski Valley Specialist! : www.TSVRealty.com Keith Dowell, Qualifying Broker : Phone: (575) 776.0600 : #5 Ernie Blake Road, Taos Ski Valley, NM 87525
SNOW BEAR INN & CONDOMINIUMS
Upscale ski-in / ski-out condominium in TAOS SKI VALLEY. Featuring modern but rustic decor stimulated with OUTSTANDING VIEWS. LOW HOA DUES that includes a hot tub, parking and shuttle. Established rental program already in place. MLS# 89905 .........Aspen 1 .............$175,000...........2BR MLS# 93547 .........Chamonix 3 ......$189,900...........2BR
SIERRA DEL SOL CONDOMINIUMS
BEAUTIFUL CONTEMPORARY HOME
Quality custom home designed by the late architect Gary Embler. A great location just a mile from world-class Taos Ski Valley. The two decks and oversized windows enhance the STUNNING ROCKY MOUNTAIN VIEWS. This house exudes quality craftmanship. MLS# 93596 .......$699,000
TAOS EAST CONDOMINIUMS
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!! Nice and roomy three-bedroom condominium at Sierra del Sol. HIGH ceilings. Scenic balcony with OUTSTANDING MOUNTAIN VIEWS of the slopes and the Rio Hondo River. World-class location just steps from the ski lift. Good rental history and management. MLS# 92682 .........$279,000...........3BR
Deluxe Mountain Condominium in the Heart of the Rockies directly on the Rio Hondo River. Great 1BR unit exuding a rustic, casual elegance feel. Well appointed with new appliances and decor. Enjoy the ambiance of the river and the Alpine Scenery. Established rental program in place. Only 4BR condo in TSV! MLS# 92911 .........$319,000...........4BR / 2BA MLS# 93759 .........$99,000 .............1BR / 1BA
PHOENIX SWITCHBACK LOT
Ideal lot in Taos Ski Valley. Outstanding down valley views. Two minute walk to the new Pioneer Glade Ski Lift!! Great Value! MLS# 9337 .....$229,000
TAOS SKI VALLEY CHALET
Well built home in Taos Ski Valley. Located just a mile from the ski area, this home gives you great access to all the mountain brings. Skiing, hiking, bike riding and much more are just out the door. A contemporary, rustic design that gives this home the mountain feel. MLS# 93558.... $459,000 .....3BR / 2BA
Quality, Modern Homes in the Town of Taos!
TOWN OF TAOS HOUSE
Bright and charming modern home on a private cul-de-sac with GREAT downtown location. Fenced in backyard and secluded front portal with hot tub. Well built, quality home. Plenty of kitchen space with a large pantry for storage. MLS# 93405 ................$269,000 .............2BR / 2BA Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
TALPA PUEBLO STYLE HOME
Beautiful 3 bedroom / 2 bathroom with high tongue and groove ceilings and vigas. Luxurious home features saltillo tiles, french doors, and two great living areas. Excellent scenery. Attractive wood fence surrounds a large, one acre lot. New 900 square feet, two car garage adds value to this outstanding property. HOT TUB INCLUDED! MLS# 92631 Price reduced $329,000 to $289,000
13 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
Page Sullivan GROUP Page Sullivan
TaosHomePage.com
page@TaosHomePage.com
575-758-7890
Tasteful Southwest Style Peaceful, Easy Feeling 3BR/3BA/2496sf home with& attached 2CG on 4BR/2.5BA/3116sf adobe frame home onone 2+ tranquil, park-like floor acre. plan, Excellent passiveviews, solar acres. Split-level fantastic gain, beautiful landscaping, custom woodwork, gorgeous landscaping, inviting outdoor living ideal for entertaining. areas. Near town but private.
Wonderful Wonderful Light-filled Light-filled Home Home 3BR/2BA/2498sf home home wtih with contemporary style, 3BR/2BA/2498sf 925sf of of deck deck & & patio, patio, & & a 797sf workshop, all on 925sf acres. Landscaping driptoirrigation, 2two acres in San Cristobal. includes Easy access national lush grassy lawn, 100+ trees. forest. Landscaping, lovely outdoor living spaces.
Cristobal Valley PumiceSan Home in Llano Quemado 2BR/2BA/1138sf home on 0.63 acresishasa lots of Delightful 3BR/2BA/2093sf house snug, lovely details, including largeSet living/dining area & cheerful place to call home. on 2.5 acres with nice kitchen. Sound-insulated, private setting, wooded areas, vegetable garden, fruit trees, lilacs, irrigation, water rights. &drip forsythia. Unique great room, smart floor plan.
MLS 93805 90864 MLS
MLS 92988 92988 MLS
MLS93266 92928 MLS
$568,000 $775,000
$448,000 $448,000
$225,000 $365,000
Land and Acreage Sanctuary Minutes from Town Reach for the Stars!
Contemporary Seco Home Upscale In-town Condo 3BR/2.5BA/2101sf adobe with attached 2CG like set This 2BR/2.5BA/1850sf two-story condo feels a single-family home. High-end finishes, granite on 0.86 lush acres with water rights & spectacular counters, concrete floors, floor views of El stained Salto. Kiva fireplaces in LRopen & master plan. Walk to shopping, dining, Plaza! BR, vaulted ceilings. Sweet pastoral living in style!
Spacious Spacious Contemporary Contemporary Home Home 3BR/2.5BA/2695sf on 3BR/2.5BA/2695sf with with heated heated attached 2CG on 0.78acres. acres. Perfect Perfect blend blend of of contemporary style & 0.78 traditional Southwest Southwest features. features. Spectacular views traditional views fromindoors indoors && out, out, covered covered portal. portal. from
MLS 93718 82293 MLS
MLS 91401 91401 MLS
$368,000 $430,000
$548,000 $557,500
CT
TRA
ON ER C
UND
Looking for the this perfect Everything about 3.05landhomesite on which to build acre is stellar, from the perfect home? Look location to price to views. no further! 2.2 Subdivision has smart CC&Rs beautiful, forested acres & a greenbelt that’s perfect lessnature than 10 minutes to for walks. Desirable neighborhood. Only a few Taos Plaza. Spectacular lots remain. With big skies & building sites. big views, this is a gem! MLS 89983 MLS 93860 $280,000 $74,900
Taos Ski Valley Land Taos Ski Valley Land
Lot 18 in Lot in the the Kachina Kachina Subdivisionisis0.78 0.78acres acres Subdivision of of pure mountain pure mountain splendor. splendor. Gently rolling Gently rolling land, multiple land, multiple building building spots. Adjoins Lot spots. Adjoins Lot 19 19 (MLS 93057). (MLS 93057). BuyBuy oneone or or both& &construct construct the the both retreat retreatofofyour yourdreams. dreams. MLS 89709 $188,000 MLS 89709 $188,000
Two to Every Story ValleSides Escondido Lakeview This 2BR/1BA site-built homedetached plus attached 3BR/2BA/1700sf getaway with 1CG on 0.34 acres in our own beautiful valleySet is 2BR/1BA guesthouse offers a totalhidden of 1682sf. move-in ready! custom cabinets, on 0.5 acres with High town ceilings, sewer, natural gas, & well. large deck. Exceptional lot & setting. Ten minutes to Taos Plaza.
Where the Three Deer & the Antelope Play for One! And so independent can you! 1BR/1BA/1200sf two-story home Three homes: 3BR/2BA/1654sf main house, 2BR/2BA/880sf guesthouse, it’s & on 1.5 acres is a naturetwo-story lover’s haven--and 2BR/1BA/1208sf on 0.78water, acres. outbuildings, Each home is horse property! studio Community appropriatenear for rental. privacy, views! workshop, nationalLandscaping, forest.
MLS 93782 92306 MLS
MLS 92440 92315 MLS
$242,000 $178,800
$599,000 $110,000
Kachina StellarSubdivision Homesite Lot 19acre in Taos Ski Valley's One in the Weimer Kachina Subdivision, 0.8 subdivision with level ground, acres with favorable pinon trees, chamisa, sage, CC&Rs and the bluest & sweeping views in every skies in New Mexico. direction. Minutes from Adjoins Lot 18 (MLS historic 89709).Taos Plaza, Put convenient them to hospital, schools, shopping, together & build your dining, & more! own mini-resort. MLS 93057 MLS 89559 $175,000 $90,000
Well, Well, Well! Spectacular Lot
Bent Bent St. St. Garden Garden District District This pristine 1575sf 1575sfadobe adobeonon0.11 0.11 acres This lovely, lovely, pristine acres is isononthe theNational National Register Register ofof Historic Historic Places. Places. Currently aa gallery, gallery, with with past past lives as a home, a Currently restaurant, office officespace, space,&&retail retailstore. store. restaurant,
Architectural Architectural Appeal Appeal & & Big Big Views Views 3BR/2BA/2212sf attached 2CG 2CG on on 1.21 1.25 3BR/2BA/2212sf home home with with attached acres open floor floor acres in in Vista Vista Linda. Linda. Gourmet kitchen, open plan, luxurious luxurious baths, baths, pristine pristine condition. Check plan, outthe thegolf golfcourse course from from your your back back portal! portal! out
MLS MLS 90815 90815
MLS MLS 92460 92460
$825,000 $875,000
Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
$449,900 $449,900
This 1.39-acre 10-acre homesite parcel of This in land Weimer on thefoothills West Rim the has Road offers amazing a beautiful arroyo on one views, with a functioning border and big views of well on a well share and Wheeler Peak, El & electricity at Salto, the the western horizon. lot—rare assets westNice of residential the Gorge! neighborhood, telephone & electric at lot. MLS 89997
$80,000
MLS 86966 $149,000
575-758-7890
14 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
Lush Gardens, Adobe Home 3BR/2BA/1625sf adobe on 1.45 acres. Beautiful living spaces indoors & out. Walled front courtyard has covered portal; fully fenced backyard has covered deck. Third BR makes an ideal study.
Tennis, Anyone? 526sf studio unit at Quail Ridge Condo Resort has unobstructed mountain views, kiva fp, & private patio. Offered for sale with furnishings, move-in ready. Seasonal pool, year-round hot tub.
MLS 92698
MLS 90434
$278,000
Ideal Location, Rastra Construction 2BR/2BA/1533sf energy-efficient home. Each bedroom has an en suite bathroom. Built-in bookcases, corner kiva fp with brick hearth, walled back patio, hot tub, landscaping, stellar views, privacy.
$104,000 MLS 93588
Casa Madera: Timeless Charm
$380,000
Peaceful, Private, & Pastoral in Des Montes
4BR/3BA/5354sf circa 1840 adobe villa on 3.406 lush, pastoral acres with Rio Pueblo frontage offers historic ambiance with modern conveniences. Attached 2BR/1BA apartment, detached 4CG. Beautiful woodwork, tall viga ceilings, statement fireplaces, study, den, sunroom, formal dining room, indoor hot tub & exercise room. Two covered porches, beautiful deck with fireplace, water rights, mountain views. Listen to the river flow, watch the hawks soar, and celebrate this magical setting. Every home has a story to tell. Write your next chapter at Casa Madera!
2BR/2BA/1936sf home offers gorgeous views from every window. Set on 3+ acres, the home is of energy-efficient adobe & pumice construction. It has an oversized, attached 2CG with a workshop area. The dining room & living room each feature corner kiva fireplaces. Throughout are viga/T&G ceilings, hard-trowel plaster walls, & large windows that showcase the views. Pretty landscaping, greenhouse, water rights, hot tub, gazebo, covered porches, & more!
MLS 92119
MLS 93509
$794,000
On Top of the World in El Salto
$438,000
Adobe Home Is Elegant, Graceful
This contemporary 3BR/2BA home measures 2086sf, with a detached 1BR/1BA/1000sf guesthouse that has its own kitchen. Beautiful passive solar design, deck that takes full advantage of expansive views, hot tub, spacious master suite with private deck. Terrific open floor plan for kitchen/dining area/living room. Large attic for storage. Magical location is unsurpassed for peaceful seclusion. Detached garage.
Built around 1900 and remodeled in 2004, this 5BR/5.5BA/6085sf home in Taos’s Historic District offers plenty of privacy, a 3CG, & a lovely conservatory with a koi pond. Two master suites, guest suites, and colorful children’s areas. High-end gourmet kitchen, wet bar, luxurious formal dining room with fireplace. The bathrooms feature tumbled marble. Front and rear courtyards, upstairs balcony.
MLS 93560
MLS 91614
Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
$648,000
15 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
$1,990,000
REALTOR®
®
MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE
®
REALTOR
®
EQUAL HOUSING
LENDER
Lota ReaLty, INC.
EQUAL HOUSING
OPPORTUNITY
www.cblotataos.com
Corner of Paseo del Pueblo Norte & Civic Plaza Drive 800-829-8673
FRANK DAILEY 575-770-2256
Historic Landmark with luxury standards. 100 yards to the plaza, thick adobe walls, modern appliances. Home comes partially furnished. Kiva fireplaces, guest house for guests or rental income. Behind RC Gorman Gallery. Great location and it’s quiet. MLS # 92929 $425,000
Beautiful, sound home with great views and safe surroundings. Hard surface road with easy access to downtown shops. MLS 89410 $185,000
Tastefully decorated and upgraded in-town condo. Great patio and living area. Extensive upgrades in kitchen, living area and bath rooms. Vigas and tongue & groove ceilings. Large, beautiful landscaped common area. Park-like setting. Furnishing negotiable. MLS # 93422 $259,000
Beautiful territorial home with guest house. Lots of pasture land and an artesian well. Organic gardens. Must see the area and property. Great view of downtown Taos from the property. MLS 83287 $349,000
Prime Commercial income property on Ski Valley Road. Good flexibility for office spaces. Excellent occupancy record. Three buildings, 22 offices with flexibility. Freight elevator in the main building. Great road frontage and visibility and 25+ parking spaces. MLS# 90104 $1,600,000
Beautiful rolling property legally subdivided into 13 lots with well, phone, electricity at the lot. Three septic permits. “Exhibits” listed under disclosure. Property is legally subdivided into 13 lots with one well serving six lots. All environmental studies have been done. Turnkey subdivision. Great for cabin sites, family campground, corporate retreat, church camp or selling individual lots. MLS# 92254 $150,000
View All Taos MLS Listings at www.cblotataos.com Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
16 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
www.JanRader.com
JAN RADER, CRS, GRI 575-770-2012 jan@janrader.com
VALDEZ – (93659) Spacious & Spotless Condo. Beautifully remodeled end unit at Hacienda de Valdez is fully furnished and equipped, all new appliances. Features 2 large bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 fireplaces, 3 balconies. Convenient to Taos Ski Valley. Good rental location. $149,900 CALL JAN RADER
LOWER LAS COLONIAS – (92732) Condo composed of two one bedroom apartments with excellent rental history. Pumice construction with lovely interior finishes. Both units have kiva fireplaces, Jacuzzi bathtubs. Bright, spacious, good views, nice outdoor areas. $250,000 CALL JAN RADER
ARROYO HONDO – (93717) Charming true adobe casa sits on a ridge in Arroyo Hondo. Many south facing windows offer panoramic views and excellent solar gain. 2 BR/1 BA home with many lovely architectural features. Easy access from SR 522. $284,500 CALL JAN RADER
TOWN OF TAOS – (91718) Lovely courtyard home in great neighborhood, convenient to everything. 2 BR/2 BA home has a great open floor plan, oversized two car garage, beautifully landscaped. Great alternative to a condo, easy maintenance, no HOA fees. $319,000 CALL JAN RADER
TOWN OF TAOS – (93539) Picture perfect 2BR/2BA free standing condo. Energy efficient home with privacy and great views. Walking distance to Taos Plaza. Quality construction, brick floors, vigas, kiva, custom tin work, upgrades throughout $389,000 CALL JAN RADER
COUNTRY CLUB – (93397) Spacious, beautiful 3BR/3BA home on 3 landscaped acres at Taos Country Club. Great entertaining spaces indoors and out. Exceptional views. Traditional southwestern details throughout. Many special features; call for details. $795,000 CALL JAN RADER
View All Taos MLS Listings at
LoTA ReALTy, Inc.
MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE
REALTOR®
®
MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE
PRIVATe oASIS
REALTOR®
®
EQUAL HOUSING
LENDER
JUDY BUCK 575-758-8673 judy@cblotataos.com
EQUAL HOUSING
OPPORTUNITY
TOWN OF TAOS – (93654) The ultimate in-town, walk to the Plaza 3BR condo. Extremely spacious great room with kiva fireplace and mountain views. Private, walled patio with outdoor kiva and ramada. Move in ready and an excellent vacation rental In perfect condition with lovely landscaping throughout the complex! $425,000 CALL JUDY BUCK
BLUEBERRY HILL – (93777) Drive through the custom gates into a world of your own…this lovely 4 BR/3BA home sits in the middle of 2 grassy acres surrounded by privacy fencing. The property is totally unique, offering peace, tranquility & exquisite mountain views. The authentic adobe home is spacious & inviting with a comfortable floor plan, and the right southwestern details. Wonderful extras are the oversized 3 car garage, barn, corral & hundreds of trees. Established landscaping with drought tolerant plantings. $840,000 CALL JAN RADER
BLUEBERRY HILL – (93668) Glorious views in every direction from this Donna Le Furgey designed adobe home. Extraordinary walled garden spaces on 3 sides plus portal and private master suite. 3BR/2BA, on 2 acres. $435,000 CALL JUDY BUCK
corner of Paseo del Pueblo norte & civic Plaza Drive 800-829-8673
View All Taos MLS Listings at www.cblotataos.com Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
17 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
8.875" x 11.375"
Taos’ Best-Kept Secret! Trim 8.375" x 10.875"
Live Area 7.875" x 10.134"
www.realestatetaos.com
575-758-3275 peter@theloraco.com
Come See Us At 225 Kit Carson Road
You probably didn’t know that only 10 minutes (4 miles) from Taos center there is an impressive estate on 12 (or 21) magnificent acres! Enjoy complete privacy,restful quiet and spectacular natural beauty in the foothills overlooking Taos Valley. Awesome views, with an abundance of trees, extensive landscaping and outdoor living areas, create a park-like environment. The property consists of a gracious 3-bedroom/3-bath main home, with an attached very comfortable 1-bedroom/1-bath guest quarters. The main home is approximately 3,800 square feet; the guest quarters are about 800 square feet. The total 4 bedrooms and 4 baths are a spacious 4,600 square feet. There is an attached oversized, heated 3-car garage, including a separate 200-square foot workshop, and several outbuildings for equipment and storage. The well-built and meticulously-maintained true adobe home was designed in classic southwestern style. It is warm and inviting, with many interesting architectural details and pleasing features.
What can we do for you?
The property is situated on a private road, with very little traffic and plenty of space between it and the other high-end homes in the neighborhood. A trail into the US National Forest is nearby, and horses are welcome. There is a second gated entrance with a service road to the house and the lower part of the property. The entire property is enclosed with double split-rail fencing. A one-of-A-kind TAos properTy!
$1,795,000 MLs #93317 - Also Available on 21 acres $2.4 million. See a Virtual Tour at: www.visualtour.com/show.asp?T=3046669
View All Taos MLS Listings At www.realestatetaos.com Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
18 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
8.875" x 11.375"
Trim 8.375" x 10.875"
peACefUL CoUnTry LiVinG - 3BR/1.5BA artistic adobe w/attached studio on 0.97 pastoral acres. Just minutes from Town. Excellent views of mountains! Organic design, 2 kiva fireplaces, wood stove, lots of passive solar heating. Gardens and shade trees, a covered deck, 2nd separate studio/workspace. Lovely outdoor living area w/ fireplace. Truly a comfortable & creative place to call home. $279,500 MLs #93742 www.visualtour.com/show.asp?T=3090560
HoMe WiTH spiriT - Sunny Live Area2BR/1BA adobe on 1.1 acres with fine mountain views. Open kitchenliving-dining areas, with doors to outside deck. 7.875" x 10.134" Fenced yard w/ trees & gardens. In-floor radiant heat, 2 fireplaces,nichos, vigas, saltillo tile. 2nd bedroom could be a studio or office. Nice quiet setting 20 min. from Taos. Enjoy the nearby Rio Grande! $225,000 MLs #92045 www.visualtour.com/show.asp?T=2993489
fABULoUs VieWs - Elegant 3 BR/3BA home with upscale finishes. Spacious 2,800 sq. ft., featuring large living room, ample dining room, 2 patios, 4 fireplaces, hot tub. Gorgeous master suite upstairs, with travertine tile, jetted tub, separate shower, private deck. Two nice bedrooms & full baths downstairs. On a ridge above a beautiful valley, w/ panoramic views of mountains. Excellent vacation rental! $595,000 MLs #93550 www.visualtour.com/show.asp?T=3076231
UpsCALe Condo in ToWn - Beautiful free-standing condo less than a mile from Taos Plaza. 2 BR/2 BA w/1car garage.Quality construction,in like-new condition. Open floor plan,high ceilings,fireplace,in-floor radiant heat, granite counter tops, brick paver floors. Vibrant colors. Beautifully landscaped private grounds w/ wildflowers, trees, great views. Large, very private rear patio with sunken hot tub. $395,000 MLs #93832 www.visualtour.com/show.asp?T=3101549
Arroyo seCo AdoBe – Cute 2BR/2BA on 1.3 acres. Traditional Taos style w/ vigas, saltillo tile floor, kiva fireplace. Open floor plan w/ large living-dining area. Excellent mtn views! In-floor radiant heat, natural gas. Attached 2-car garage. Covered patios, fenced dog run. Excellent rental potential. Great location 1 mile from charming Arroyo Seco, w/ easy access to Taos Ski Valley and Town of Taos. $297,000 MLs #93410 www.visualtour.com/show.asp?T=3045440
priMe CoMMerCiAL LoCATion - Historic building in heart of Taos central Business district on Kit Carson Rd approx. 100 ft. from entrance to Taos Plaza. Over 5,000 sq. ft. street-level space + 2,450 s.f. of very usable basement space. Currently divided into 2 galleries. Excellent visibility & foot traffic. $950,000 MLs #91408 http://www.visualtour.com/show.asp?T=2659475
eCo-friendLy – Energy-efficient straw bale construction. Beautifully-detailed 1,700 sq ft 3BR/1BA rich in natural character & artistic touches. Off-the-grid but electric nearby. Great outdoor living areas. Fenced gardens. Detached studio/workshop + large storage barn. On 9.76 irrigated acres w/ panoramic views in all directions. Add’l land available. $250,000 MLs #90652 www.visualtour.com/show.asp?T=2516505
MAriposA rAnCH LoT - One of the best lots in one of Taos’ best neighborhoods! 11.45-acre home site in upscale community of 10+ acre lots. Magnificent panoramic views, thoughtful restrictions, underground utilities. Well-share in place. A beautiful spot to build your dream home, just 15 minutes from Town, and 20 minutes from Taos Ski Valley. $265,000 MLs #88677 www.visualtour.com/show.asp?t=2896100
CoUnTry CLUB HoMe siTe - One of the best lots at Taos Country Club, with great 360-degree views of mountains, sunsets, and the golf course. Overlooks 8th & 9th fairways and 9th green. Underground utilities, well-share. Gated neighborhood just 12 minutes south of Taos Plaza. A great place to live or invest, even if you don’t play golf! SELLER FINANCING! $137,000 MLs #92241 www.visualtour.com/show.asp?t=2444701
VisTA GrAnde - Excellent 4.4-acre lot in quality subdivision with upscale homes. Awesome views! Underground electric, phone, natural gas. Shared well in place. Sensible restrictions. North side location, about 12 minutes from Town and 20 minutes from Taos Ski Valley. $159,000 MLs #90598 www.visualtour.com/show.asp?t=2889678
irriGATed LAnd - 1.54 acres of lush valley land makes a nice home site for those looking for a rural feel but still close to Town. Great for home-based agriculture and gardening, and/or horses. Fine mountain views. Liquid waste disposal will be El Valle de Los Ranchos sewer system. Sensible restrictions. Seller is a licensed NM real estate broker. $73,000 MLs #90598 www.visualtour.com/show.asp?T=3026199
CoMMerCiAL BLdG + 2 renTALs - On 2.74 acres in developing area near strategic intersection. Rentals are comfortable residential or professional space. One has attached garage. Well-built 24’ x 60’ workshop has half-bath, and could be excellent retail space.Add’l bldg has been permitted. Live,work, develop, invest! $647,000 MLs #90876 www.visualtour.com/show.asp?t=278508
Taos resources, virtual tours, market statistics & more! Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
19 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
Wolfgang Collins | Wolfgang’s Spa Works
Questions By TERESA DOVALPAGE PHOTO By TinA LARkin
1 What makes your spas unique? All of our hot tubs and saunas are energy-efficient and dependable. Monthly electrical bills for many hot tubs can be as low as $10 even when the spa is used outside. People can enjoy them every day of the year. We also have available a natural salt water system to sanitize the water. No chlorine needs to be added and the water stays soft, clear and odorless.
2 What are some health benefits of regular use of hot tubs? There are many. Regular hot water immersion promotes healing of wounds, relieves pain and decreases swelling in legs and feet. It helps maintain joint mobility and flexibility by increasing circulation of blood to the muscles. Hot water immersion increases blood flow to the heart, so it can also reduce blood pressure. Soaking for an hour in the tub after working in the garden, or working out in the gym, may prevent muscle soreness and stiffness.
3 Besides these appealing health benefits, why should people buy a hot tub? Well, they can spend $4,000 for a holiday, and then they are back at home, same old place, with a much thinner wallet. For the same amount of money they can enjoy an hour or more of relaxation or “holiday experience” at home every day, for many years. 4 As a business owner, what are your priorities? Making sure that we fulfill our customers’ needs from day one. When people buy a hot tub, many times they don’t know how to take care of it. We give them a half-hour lesson on how to do it, and give free advice on water care when they call. Also, ensuring that our employees are well-trained and taken care of. We pay them good wages and they all have the opportunity to be covered by health insurance, which our company provides them for free.
5 What is the most rewarding aspect of your job? The products that I sell (saunas, hot tubs and swim spas) definitely improve our customers’ lives. They will feel better, sleep better and be more active. Being able to contribute to people’s well-being is definitely rewarding.
Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
6 Wolfgang’s Spa Works has been voted the best place to buy a hot tub in Taos and the Moreno Valley for seven years in a row. What is your secret? Superior customer service is key. Also, we charge less for our hot tubs. In fact, our prices are lower than those of any competitor of which we are aware. And we have a great team here. All of our employees are top notch and my son, Neil Collins, is an outstanding store manager, salesman and maintenance manager. I am proud to say that he is continuing the family tradition. 7 What is the price range of your spas? We sell the Volkswagen, the Toyota, and the Lexus of spas. Prices range from a little more than $3,000 for a dependable plain hot tub, up to about $12,000 for the big luxury models. We often have specials. Shoppers should check our website for special pricing on selected models from time to time. The address is www.wolfgangspas.com.
8 What other products and services do you offer? We sell hot tub covers, cover lifts, chemicals, and many accessories. Also, we do a big repair business in the larger Taos area, from Questa to Angel Fire. At the store, we sell replacement parts such as spa computer boards, pumps and motors. We have special equipment to move hot tubs from one home to another. Our crew also services and cleans hot tubs, either as needed, or on a regular schedule. People can contract for regular maintenance visits once a week, once every two weeks, or once a month. Out of town owners find this service especially valuable. Maintenance rates are reasonable and can be found on our website. 9 What do you see happening with your business in the future? We may branch out with patio furniture and barbecues, but for right now we like to keep it simple. My ambition is to do common things uncommonly well.
Wolfgang’s Spa Works, 1210J Salazar Road, Taos, (575) 758-1857, www.wolfgangspas.com
20 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
Maria Figliolia The Art of the Real Estate Deal Email: mariafig@newmex.com 575 . 758 . 3275 Office
~Gracious In Town Condo~
Southwest style- 4BD/3BA/1CG, 2000 sq. ft. condo in town. Gorgeous kitchen, stainless appliances, granite counters, French doors, skylights, 3 kiva fireplaces, vigas, high ceilings, walk in custom closet, all the bells & whistles. Fenced back yard, covered portal. Quality built, low maintenance. Call me to see why it’s easy to live here!
MLS# 92973
$499,000
~Great Value in Town~
Web: www.RealTaos.com 575 . 779 . 0285 Cell
~Private Oasis~
~Los Pandos Estates~
Big Bang for the buck in this custom retreat -3BD/2.5BA/3FP, 3900 sq.ft. home, 1BD/1BA 1500 sq. ft. guest house on 5 acres with views. Architectural details throughout, marble baths, gorgeous kitchen, in floor radiant heat, lush gardens with an aspen grove, koi pond and 360 views. Views, peace, privacy!
MLS# 92544
Huge reduction to $599,000
~Desirable Las Cruces St.~
Spacious- in town, 2BD/2BA 1500 sq. ft. free standing condo on 1/2 acre. Light & bright open floor plan, Saltillo tile floors, beams, views, a fireplace, in floor radiant heat and a 1CG. Two walled in patios, an upstairs deck, lots of windows and patio doors bring the outside in. Conveniently located, space and views!
Turnkey-In Town sophisticated, 2BD/1.5 BA, tastefully furnished condo on desirable Las Cruces St. Roomy upgraded kitchen, tile floors, fenced yard & upstairs balcony. Stroll to the galleries, The Taos Inn, or Kit Carson Park. Trees & quiet. Live here, rent it out!
~La Buena Vida~
~Private 11 Acres~
Walk to The Plaza- Old Taos, furnished, 1BD/1BA condo in the heart of Taos. Vigas, kiva and charming. Move in ready, enjoy Town of Taos living with beautifully manicured grounds in a park like setting just a couple of blocks from the plaza. Live in it, rent it out. Call me , see why this is “The Good Life!”
Exclusive, never before on the market, a few great home sites, so many views! Lots of privacy, junipers and 40 foot pinons. South facing terraced land just off the Hondo Seco Road with those glorious Taos sunsets. Easy access to Taos Ski Valley & Town. Build your family compound here!
MLS# 92151
MLS# 92025
Reduced to $249,900
Reduced to $98,000
MLS # 92598
MLS# 93927
Reduced to $199,000
Gorgeous energy efficient 4BD/2BD home w/garage. On one acre in town with fantastic views. Stainless appliances, granite counters, kiva & vigas. Covered portals, a barbeque and hot tub add to this sophisticated home with a green belt on one side and a conservation easement on the other to protect your views. Entertaining is easy here!
MLS# 93747
$589,000
~Downtown Hacienda~
Fantastic location– 3BD/2BA and a guest house. Easy flowing open floor plan with an inner courtyard, walled in garden & lots of light. Kiva fireplace & wood floors. Quiet & private downtown street. One bedroom has its own private entrance and the charming guesthouse is a rarity in town. Living here is easy!
MLS# 93908
~Walk to Plaza~
$225,000
$495,000
On Valverde – 2BD/2BA darling “Walk to the Plaza” garden like setting. New kitchen, wood floors, fireplace, artful. Sunny, warm, bright & solar. Enchanting with gardens and a Ramada. Walk to the farmers market, plaza, Kit Carson Park, library, galleries and restaurants. Location, Condition & Price!
MLS# 93454
Just reduced to $248,500
a conversation with Lisa Cancro & Harvey Blaustein
How kitchens sell homes By Andy dennison
M
any homeowners consider the kitchen to be the hub of their house. It’s where things go on every day: cooking, eating, conversing, cleaning, and entertaining. Especially in Northern New Mexico, the kitchen is the center of all activity in a home. So Enchanted Homes invited two Taos brokers, Lisa Cancro, of Taos Properties, and Harvey Blaustein, of Harvey & Associates Realty, to talk about the role of the kitchen and how kitchens can sell a house. Lisa CanCro: I love to cook, so it’s the center of my own house and my favorite room. It’s where I spend lots of hours, with love and joy. It’s the real core, the heart of my house, where all come to sit and gather, friends and family. So when I look at property, I feel like most people want that same feeling. It’s the most important factor when looking to buy a house. A kitchen can seal a deal as much as anything. You can make other spaces work, but most people are looking at a gathering space to see if it works for them. Harvey BLaustein: It’s the heart and soul of house. You can cook while seeing what’s going on. Clearly that’s where the love comes from. It’s probably the most important room in the house and the one that costs the most re-do. Sometimes, a homeowner sells because it’s time to remodel the kitchen. The layout and quality of appliances is more important than the color. Paint, you can work with, but those with high standards need a kitchen to meet their standards.
extension of the kitchen. I find people are more flexible with the structure or size of a bedroom, but they want the kitchen to feel good. I mean, how often do we end up in the kitchen? LC: Each listing has different spice to its kitchen. Whether the countertops or the tiles, the kitchen reflects the personality of the owner. Its cabinets, its layout, the pantry and storage space – they all help with selling a house. Appliances are a big deal. Clients will invariably open the refrigerator to see how it looks inside. It doesn’t need to be too expensive, just so it feels comfortable to open the door and see what’s inside. People spend time there when they view a house. They sit and feel if they will be comfortable because of all the time to be spent in that room. Recently, a woman came in to the kitchen and physically touched all the cabinets, countertops. It’s a very tactile place. HB: You can walk into the house and figure if a man or woman designed it. There’s a different feel, function and design that works in each one. The role of the kitchen in a family home has evolved over time. No longer is the preparer of the food only the woman, and no longer is the cook isolated from social goings-on around in the rest of the house. I like live fire in a kitchen, which we don’t see often unless they are older. Warmth and earthiness can come from a kiva fireplace or freestanding fireplace with access to both sides. Most important is a room that’s light and bright.
LC: Most people want a tenderness in that room. In New Mexico, it’s about the open floor plan, with the kitchen in the main position. Typically, the kitchen flows into dining and living spaces to create a great room. Most of my buyers are looking for a great room, for open space. They want to be engaged, to be together, and to welcome everybody into a home that isn’t segmented.
LC: In Arroyo Hondo, I have a listing with a huge window across a portion of the kitchen to see the mountains. Another in Arroyo Seco has a breakfast nook and dining space – all with mountain views. It feels like the house goes on forever. People who have planned their homes took time to think about what they will see as they are doing dishes or cooking. We live in an environment with all these weather patterns and seasons that we want to see.
HB: Most people who buy in Taos have one request in common: an open floor plan. That means kitchen, dining and living rooms run together, so the cook caan be with the people who are visiting. One house I have listed, the owners created a large deck right off the kitchen with a grill, refrigerator, tables, and other items as an
HB: It appears that people like to prepare food more than they used to. There are more fresh foods available, at farmers markets. And with the recession, we couldn’t eat out as much as before. Instead, we can put quality food on our own table. A foodie is a foodie is a foodie. I find more foodies out there among my clients.
Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
22 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
BIRDERS SANCTUARY FOR SALE BY OWNER
DES MONTES - Close to the village of Arroyo Seco, town of Taos, and Taos Ski Valley. Mountain views with 290 feet of babbling acequia (with water rights), fruit trees, cottonwoods, gardens, and patios on 1.4 acres. 2 BR/2BA, screen porch, vigas throughout, 12 handcrafted interior doors, two kiva fireplaces, Viking range, office space, large attached studio, carport, 2200 sq ft of living space. Mature native landscaping and pond attract grosbeaks, tanagers, bluebirds, warblers, swallows, kingfishers and more. $515,000.
Call 575-776-2827 or desmontesproperty@gmail.com
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INVEST IN YOUR OWN HOME
DIMOND
MORTGAGE A CUT ABOVE THE REST
The best source for home financing in New Mexico… for purchases, refinance, land or construction
Ted Dimond
Vanessa Dimond
Sarah Martinez
Donna Nelson
Mark Johnson
dimondmortgage.com • 575.758.5566 800.913.5306 524 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Suite H, Taos, New Mexico NMLS# 190187
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“Cooking, because it is an act of survival, is a bonding experience itself. It is the whole ritual...”
V
alerie has a background in business and has traveled widely, living everywhere from Colorado to Texas to France. She is the one who keeps the business side of their operations running. “I’m stressed. He is not. It works,” she said laughing while skillfully balancing an interview with a string of phone calls. Chris began his career as a film and TV actor in Los Angeles. He bought several restaurants. He still acts part time, rehearsing now for a local production of “The Lilac Minion.” He used to own and cook at the local restaurant Momentitos de la Vida. In 1989 he bought the land in El Salto and began building in 1993. It took over 10 years to get the house how he wanted it. He designed the home around the kitchen. He knew he wanted to cook. The inside kitchen is large but homey and welcoming. There was no stainless steel to be seen. It felt like the chef’s home and not a school. All the cabinets were made from wood. A cluster of pots and pans hung over a massive self-designed island made of six-inch solid rock maple beautifully stained with burns and cuts and colors. Wooden stools surrounded the island. The stove was a gorgeous white 1948 Wedgewood made-in-America gas range topped with a silent running Noventa hood. A wide window looked out on the mountains and flooded the kitchen with light. “I designed the kitchen for a big group,” Chris told me. “I wanted enough space for people to work in. But first and foremost it had to be for my pleasure.” He pointed to the stove. “The Wedgewood was in my apartment in Hollywood. I bought it from my landlord for $1 and moved it out here.” Is there something specific about the stove that benefits his cooking? “Yes. I like it. It has a great aesthetic. It makes me feel good.” The Mahers aim to buy ingredients from regional producers. “There is a local food aspect to everything we do,” Valerie said. A Dixon producer supplies eggplants, mint and onions. All their lettuce and greens come from the Taos Farmers Market. The lamb comes from Tierra Amarilla. The dinner table just off the kitchen was nearly 50 square feet in size. A dozen people could sit there comfortably. It had room for more. The walls were plastered with paintings and photographs. Table tops, credenzas and desks held flowers, pots, baskets and a splattering of knick-knacks. The outdoor kitchen was dominated by a giant wood-burning Italian pizza oven, a 10-foot-wide hooded gas stove that runs on 20,000 BTUs and a massive cutting board. In the summer the Mahers host larger groups, events and weddings in the roofed structure. “This is where we can really meet many of our goals,” Valerie explained. “Especially in the summer we can have people at our home, be outside and participating in the cooking. “Cooking is an art,” Chris said. “But it is an art that is essential to survival. It’s fun. Let’s enjoy it.” Visit www.cookingstudiotaos.com for information. Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
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IN TOWN CONDO WITH CHARACTER! Right in the heart of town. Coved ceilings with vigas. Kiva. Back yard. Walled front patio. 2 bdrms, 2 baths. 1100 Sq Ft. Walk in closet. Open kitchen. Walk to historic downtown, restaurants, galleries and shops! Custom architectural features throughout. MLS 93084 $279,900
WALK TO TOWN ~ GREAT LOCATION! Largest Unit! 1013 sq ft, 2 bdrm PLUS office, 1.5 bath condo. Close to Taos Plaza. Short walk to galleries, restaurants, shops, museums. In-floor radiant heat. Downstairs has spacious kitchen, open to living room, plus half-bath. Private back yard. East facing balcony. MLS 92938 $225,000
CONDO THAT LIVES LIKE A HOUSE! The in-town, walk-to-the-Plaza, freestanding condo that looks, feels and lives like a house! Beautifully appointed throughout. Kiva fireplace. Dramatic windows. Open kitchen with granite counter tops. Dining area. Breakfast counter. 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths. 2 courtyards. Garage. MLS 93179 $495,000
MORADA LANE DUPLEX! Perfect in town location! Backing up to Kit Carson Park. Duplex-use one and rent the other, or rent both! Parking off street for two vehicles. Unit A, has 1 bdrm, 1 bath vigas, and a back patio. Unit B, has 2 bdrms and 1 bath, and front & back porches. Both are 682 sq ft. MLS 93566 $249,900
GREATER WORLD HOME WITH STYLE! A perfect peaceful get away! Open kitchen dining room. Concrete floors. Laundry. Soaking tub. Huge bedroom w/ kiva fireplace. Simplicity and clean lines evoke a feeling of calm. 1.41 acres. 1380 sq ft. Endless views! Bright, sunny and open! MLS 93842 $195,000
MESA VISTAS! HOME AND GUEST HOUSE Passive solar adobe home on Mesa Vista. Walled patio and yard. 1249 sq ft, 2 bdrms, 2 baths. 1.5 Acres. 422 sq ft guest house with 1 bdrm & 1 bath. (Could be a great studio, office or workshop) Enclosed patio between house and guest house. Great views. MLS 93595 $270,000
EL SALTO HOME WITH STREAM! Top of the world El Salto location with breathtaking mountain and valley views! 2.94 acre, lush, forested setting with a stream running along the border. Enjoy the sound of running water! Ken Wolosin built. Main level features a gracious entry, open kitchen/dining area and a cozy living room with efficient fireplace. Flagstone counter tops. Maple wood floors. 2979 square feet, 5 bedrooms, 3 baths. Top level is a sumptuous master suite with additional office/library. Lower level has a large family room, a small office/library and four bedrooms. There is an additional office and amazing wine room off double car garage! MLS 93438 $1,177,000
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RURAL SETTING ~ IN TOWN CONVENIENCE! MLS 91947 $1,050,000 3803 sq ft 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bath home on 3 acres with 2 acres of water rights. Wonderful great room/living and dining room. Intimate courtyard off dining area. Custom hand adzed wood cabinets and doors. Additional rooms include a studio/office, a library with fireplace and a fantastic heated work shop with ventilation! Beautiful mountain views! Fruit and Aspen Trees! 3 car garage with half bath. Gracious, passive solar gallery style front hall. Brick portal facing mountain views. Elegant courtyard. Drip irrigation. Interior vac. Pella windows. Hunter Douglas Window Treatments. Many built-ins in library/study. Copper Canales. New Exterior Stucco. Travis fireplace inserts with catalytic re-burner. Jacuzzi tub and steam shower. Kitchenette in the "guest suite" area. Cedar closet. Square footage breakdown: House: 3803, Workshop: 363, Garage and storage and equipment room: 1238, Patio: 390. There is a 2.29 acre parcel to the north, with a well, and three 3 acre parcels adjacent to the east and west that are available with an offer price of $60k per acre. SPECIAL HOME IN COUNTRY CLUB! You don't have to be a golfer to enjoy the stunning views! 4.4 acre lot. The topography offers privacy and gardening opportunities! Pumice-crete construction, 2808 sq ft, 3 bdrm, 2 full bath and 2 half bath home with gracious front courtyard and welcoming entry. Large living/dining room with dramatic fireplace. Family room with fireplace. The kitchen is totally gourmet with a fantastic walk in pantry, Viking appliances and Subzero Refrigerator, integral colored concrete countertops, and custom cabinetry with pullouts. Wonderful laundry room with wash sink and ample storage. Office nook. Bonus room with private courtyard off master. Deep portals. Oversized heated garage. Integral colored concrete floors. Alarm system. Skylights. Heated 2 car garage with golf cart area. Smooth plaster walls. Huge covered flagstone patio facing north, the golf course and mountains. Fenced raised bed garden with drip irrigation. Beautiful perennial gardens on drip. Trees include: Pinon Pine, Navajo Willow, Austrian Pine, Aspen, Apple, Cluster Maple, Crab Apple, Ash and Lilacs! MLS 93858 $799,000
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575-751-0013 Office 575-770-0655 Cell 751-0275 Fax fishrman@newmex.com www.tedterryintaos.com
EXIT ENCHANTED REALTY 7276 Highway 518 Ranchos de Taos, NM 87557
Ted Terry Associate Broker
New Listing. Gorgeous 3bed/3bath home on 3.87 acres with unparalelled frontage on the Rio Pueblo. You’ ll love living in this awesome adobe built by Cadillac Builders. This home is graced with Saltillo tile throughout its open airy floor plan. Located in a quiet neighborhood with Taos Pueblo as the western border. 2246 square feet and a two car attached garage. Enjoy our beautiful sunsets this summer from this one of a kind home in a one of a place location. Home furnishings and additional land available. MLS 93418/$650,000.
LAND DEALS FOR YOU!
Land Grant Cloud Resolved
Lower Rio Pueblo Acreage - An excellent riverfront tract for sale CED U D RE
Lower Des Montes - 2.00 acres on Hondo Seco Road. Ready for your new home and priced to sell. MLS# 92118/$115,000.00
MLS # 84310- 8.33 acres with room to roam on over a mile of Rio Pueblo riparian area via conservation easement. Check out the birds, fish, ancient petroglyphs and be in a world of your own. $345,000.00
Land Grant Cloud Resolved
Lower Des Montes - 4.08 acres with over the top views Prestigious Barranca del Pueblo Community. - Lot 10, New Listing - 2.76 acres with Los Cordovas Road frontage and vey secluded building sites in the pinon and juniper. 2.18 acres with all utilites at the lot line. This excellent lot and golf course views. All utilities in the road except for water. This tract may be divided and there is more acreage is being offered for $50,000 less than other tracts in the Could be used for residential home sites or with County available. MLS # 92122/$167,000.00 subdivision. Superb Rio Pueblo cliff views out over Taos approval many commercial uses. Seller is willing to split the Pueblo land. Owners will throw in building plans and topo property in half for a quick sale. MLS# 92576/$75,000.00 survey. Priced recently reduced to $99,999.00/MLS# 92389
Vista Miguel Lot 1 - 2.01 acres. Contiguous to the golf Country Club Lot 63 - 3.00 acres on Baird Drive. Still course, electric, phone and well share included. the lowest priced country club lot. MLS#87241/$65,000.00 MLS# 81675/$105,000.00 Owner/Broker
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Dona Ana Drive - Reserved development rights for up to 6 condominiums. Next to the southside spa. MLS# 87103 Price reduced to $150,000.00. Only $25,000 per site.Owner/Broker
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Now is the time to list your home! Give us a call Today!
EXIT ENCHANTED REALTY 7276 Highway 518 Ranchos de Taos, NM 87557 Office (575) 751-0013 Fax (575) 751-0275
Bino Martinez 575-770-5600
www.TaosEXIT.com Quail Ridge Casas
MLS# 78311, 79448, 89873
www.TaosNMHomes.com Questa
MLS# 93511
Modern Northside Condos - 2-beds/2-baths with carports. Zero Cost to Move in - 100% Finanacing Available! Only 3 units Left! $143,500 - your choice!
Sold “as-is” – 3-bed/2-bath with large over-sized garage. Situated in the Village of Questa.
$143,500 your choice
Offered for only $139,000
Talpa Foothills
Cimarron
ER ELL
Brian Stenum 575-779-1498
Taos Custom Adobe
MLS# 93173
Spacious 2828-sq ft 3-bed/2-bath adobe home with custom features thoughout, including hand-crafted cabinets and granite countertops. Large RV parking area in back. 1.41-ac property includes irrigation water rights.
Just Reduced to $549,500 Perfect Home Office Location
D ATE TIV
MO
S
MLS# 92796
MLS# 92693
Grand 5381-sq ft home with 4-beds/3-full and 2-partial baths. Many upgrades and renovations. Super efficient radiant heat system and much more. Seller Financing w/Attractive Terms.
Buffalo Nickel historic building with gallery space and studio area. Call for details of upgrades and amenities added.
$359,000
$1,788,000
Taos Pines – Angel Fire
Taos Canyon On The River
MLS# 93435
Secluded three story home with 4-beds/2.75-baths. Easy access on 10.5-acres. Grand views and only minutes to Angel Fire ski mountain. A must see!
Offered for $589,000 Lower Ranchitos
MLS# 91612
10.35-acres in a great location for home, plus agricultural land for livestock and/or gardens. A must see for the discerning buyer.
$496,800 Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
MLS# 93452
MLS# 91886
Great location for a live-in Home Office. 3-bed/2-bath with1675-sq ft on busy 0.45-ac corner lot near center of town. One bedroom with separate entrance would make a perfect office for meeting clients.
$359,900
Quaint And Affordable
MLS# 91887
Enjoy the serenity of Taos Canyon in this tranquil custom 3-bed/2-bath 1815-sq ft home with the Rio Fernando de Taos River running right through the center of the 1.12-acre lot. Just 5 miles from the center of Taos.
Wide open views welcome you at this 3-bed/2-bath cozy 1346-sq ft home. 1-acre lot is on paved County road for easy year round access. Large windows let lots of natural light and warmth in.
Home And Studio On 40-acres
Best In Taos Ski Valley
$273,900
MLS# 88778
Enjoy the spectacular views from this 2-bed/1-bath home bordering BLM land and overlooking the Rio Grande Gorge. Efficient solar home and studio sit on spacious 40-acre lot. Seller will consider financing.
$259,000
$224,000
MLS# 86498, 86503, 86505
1 and 2 bedroom condos just 2-minutes from the ski slopes. Reasonable but inclusive HOA includes heat, Internet, and basic satellite TV. 100% Financing Available. Hurry… only 3 left – Pick Yours Today!
$125,000 to $155,000
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price comparison | here & there
Living in Season Enjoy seasonal living anytime of year. Compare these ideal properties where summer, winter, spring and fall each have their own unique appeal. Angel Fire, NM
Carbondale, CO
$695,000
$817,500
3BD/3BA, 3,200 sq. ft. MLS #92654
3BD/3BA MLS# 127810
Mountain Showpiece
Mountain Splendor
Looking for that special mountain property? This custom, true log home is close to the ski area and has plenty of room for après-ski entertaining including a bonus room with an attached bathroom that could be used for a game room, bunkroom or media room. The mountain-style furnishings, including the antler chandelier, are included. A large stone fireplace is the focal point of the great room that features floor-to-ceiling windows to enjoy the aspen grove on this property’s 0.6 acres and beyond. Granite counter tops and stainless appliances grace the kitchen.
This one-level, three-bedroom, 3.5 bathroom home is a turnkey sale with its great size, perfect floor plan and beautiful furnishings. There are hardwood floors throughout the living area plus cathedral ceilings. Bedrooms are separated for additional privacy. An adjacent pond provides a pleasing view and irrigation water. Membership to Aspen Glen Club is available for unlimited golf on the Nicklaus/Nicklaus II Signature Course. Residents of this gated community may wade the four miles of gold medal flyfishing waters of the Roaring Fork River. Enjoy the Aspen Music Festival during the summer or world class skiing all winter.
Contact: Michael Woolley REMAX Mountain Realty (575) 377-1919 | MikeW@remax.net
Contact: Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty Sue Hess | (970) 309-5455 |suehessco@gmail.com
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realtor profile Peter Rommel
“i think of myself as a docent” by Teresa dovalpage phoTo by Tina larkin
Peter Rommel, associate broker at Prudential Taos Real Estate, was born in Poland and grew up in Las Vegas, Nevada and Northern California. Then he found Taos. “I first discovered Taos in 1982, when the blinking light still blinked,” he said. “I came up to ski and drove in a couple hours before daybreak — the town was sleeping, it was snowing and the piñón smoke was low in the air. I fell in love that morning and knew Taos had to be in my future.” Rommel brings 30 years of experience in the corporate world and as an entrepreneur to the real estate business. “I have sold everything from consulting to diesel engines but ‘selling’ real estate is different,” he said. “I don’t need to ‘sell’ any part of New Mexico — it sells itself.” His role, he says, is to educate people. “My job is to interpret my clients’ dreams and present them with options,” he said. “I think of myself as a docent. My overall goal is to make a real estate transaction, that can be an emotional and drawnout process, into a calm, comfortable and financially sound one.” He explains all the matters that need to be understood when buying or selling a property. “There are water rights, title issues, access, location, stucco, loans, septic laws and 25 other things that people need to pay attention to,” he said. “I make sure that all the details are taken care of, so that a buyer or a seller can focus on their dreams instead of the paperwork.” The websiTe as a Tool As for marketing strategies, he says that every real estate business must have a website.
“Often people just want to watch the market up here and are not ready to buy or sell property soon at all … they just enjoy looking at homes in New Mexico,” he said. “My website sends automatic updates about pricing, availability and conditions of the market-specific segment that my users select. There is no aggressive sales effort. I just want people to have the information that they want without hassle or pressure.” He also provides links to most of the small towns in Taos and parts of Río Arriba counties.
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“My site www.adobesoftaos.com seeks to educate and offer solutions rather than ‘sell’ real estate on-line,” he said. “I am working on providing more than just tools to search the MLS and look at listings. I want to provide my clients with solid and focused information on local markets, what it takes to live in New Mexico and where to look for their dreams.” Rommel is also striving to make the site content-rich. “Content in terms of what is important to know with respect to living here,” he said, “as well as what to expect in terms of ‘issues’ like the ones I mentioned above.” working wiTh a pro Prudential Taos Real Estate, the company Rommel works with, has been the number one real estate company in Taos for many years.
“Prudential leads the market in Taos because of experience,” Rommel said. “It’s likely that we know the houses and who owned them … several owners ago. It’s great for me to be able to work with the most successful team in this business because they have an amazing amount of knowledge. I strive to pass that knowledge to clients in ways that save them time and money.” Besides his real estate business, Rommel also works a few evening shifts at the Historic Taos Inn’s front desk. “I enjoy it immensely,” he said. “I get to spend time at one of the coolest places to listen to music and be with friends in Taos, but I also get a great ‘Taos experience’ that I can share with visitors. In real estate I get to guide people to see places where they might like to live. To me, that is an honor and I like seeing these places myself.” words of advice When asked for advice to someone interested in becoming a Realtor, he said, “Do what you love doing and success will follow. But be sure and align yourself with strength and experience in choosing a company to work with as a broker. My best advice is to judge yourself on how positive and healthy your relationships are with your clients, co-workers, and the community. Taos is all about people and personal connection as well as the connection with nature. It’s alignment.” Call Dee and Peter Rommel at (575) 758-1924; or visit www.adobesoftaos.com for more information.
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For 2013, Taos has kicked off its “Adventures de Taos” campaign to raise awareness that “adventure” is what you make of it, and it’s different for everyone. but the core concept of adventure remains unchanged — excitement!
Taking a serendipiTous rouTe To Taos by ANDy DENNISON PHOTO by TINA LARKIN
ike many who came to Taos from away, Bob Bishop’s journey took the prerequisite twists along the way. And like most, when that trip ended beneath Taos Mountain, Bishop could look back and recall the half-dozen fortuitous, serendipitous turns in the road that led, eventually, to Taos. After graduating from South High School in Denver, Bishop had the grades to go to Stanford. But his advisor was big on Colorado schools, so Bishop ended up at Colorado College in Colorado Springs.
in need,” Bishop said. “So do many here in Taos. We didn’t really know about the political leanings here, but it was as progressive as we are. If it hadn’t been progressive, we would have left.” In 1979 – the same year that the Bishops had their first child, Jonah – the owners of Colorado Log Homes offered to sell the business to Bishop. He thought about it but someone else bought it.
“I remember they had it from Memorial Day to Labor Day,” Bishop said. “Then, the factory near Rocky Flats (nuclear weapons plant) outside Denver exploded and Taos. I had one job, a burned to the ground. They had to close the Taos store … and I was my own employer. really dodged a bullet.”
“Finally, I made it in “The next year, the advisor left and five students went day job at that, and I to Stanford,” Bishop said with a laugh. “But CC was What the fire did leave with How about that!?” just right for me. It Bishop was experience selling exposed me to different wood stoves for the log home people and enlarged my worldview. And, though I could have transdealer, and Bonnie suggested that he get into the stove business. ferred, I was having too much fun.” Bishop took out a mortgage on his house, had a storefront built on A Colorado College diploma led to graduate school at SUNY-Buffalo and a job as a system analyst in Washington, D.C. In summer 1966, Bishop traveled west to Boulder for summer school, at University of Colorado, to learn French to strengthen his resume. There, he met his partner for life. In 1967, Bob Bishop and Bonnie Korman got married in her hometown of Fort Worth and drove to Aspen for their honeymoon. They selected a route that, by happenstance, took them through Taos. The memory of Taos stuck. “It was like another country,” Bishop said. “We kept that in the back of our minds. We had originally figured it was Aspen but, when it came time, we chose Taos.” In 1971, they became full-time residents of Taos – and then figured out a way to make a living. “We quickly followed the Taos tradition of getting a couple of jobs,” Bishop told Enchanted Homes. “For the first 11 years, I worked as a laborer, a projectionist at the Taos Plaza Cinema, and a bartender at the Plaza Bar and La Cocina. I sold log homes. I remembered being told, ‘If you lose a job in Taos, you still have a couple left.’” The Bishops also found they were among kindred political souls in Taos. He had gotten his progressive roots from watching his working-class father struggle to support a family, get laid-off just before he could draw retirement pay – and end up living with his parents. “I judge a nation by how it takes care of its elderly, children, people Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
Paseo del Pueblo Sur, bought a few stoves and started Tierra Wood Stoves. “Finally, I made it in Taos,” he said with a laugh. “I had one job, a day job at that, and I was my own employer. How about that!?” From 1980 on, his life has settled into a comfortable, more predictable journey here in Taos. Being a salesman/business proprietor was nothing Bishop had specifically aspired to, but he took to it readily. “I treat people the way I would like to be treated,” he said. “For instance, I put a lifetime warranty on window coverings. Not only do we install them free, we fix them for free when they need it.” Tierra Wood Stoves has always had a generous layaway plan, he said. A modest deposit guarantees the price and product for as along as a customer needs to get the money together. If a customer decides against the stove, he or she gets the full deposit back – no questions asked, said Bishop. “As long as I’m alive and still interested, there will be that guarantee,” Bishop said. And, as long as Bishop is still having fun and looking forward, he said he will be at his post at Tierra Wood Stoves. Bishop’s retail roots probably began as a kindergartner in Denver, “playing store” with a toy cash register and fake groceries. “And, I’m still playing store,” he said. “It’s like fishing: You never know what you are going to get on any day. It’s never boring.”
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CERRO
To Costilla & Colorado
El Norte
QUESTA
RED RIVER
SAN CRISTÓBAL
To Tres Piedras & Chama
ARROYO HONDO
ELIZABETHTOWN
TAOS SKI VALLEY
VALDEZ EL SALTO
HONDO MESA
EAGLE NEST
ARROYO SECO
Taos Pueblo
EL PRADO
Taos Municipal Airport
PA S E O
DEL P UE
BL
O N
O
RT
E
RANCHITOS
Kit Carson Park
BLUEBERRY HILL
KIT CA RS O
Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial
N
LAS COLONIAS
RD
TAOS
LP UE B
LO
SU
R
CAÑÓN HEIGHTS
PA S
PA S
EO
DE
LAS CORDOVAS
Taos RANCHOS DE TAOS Country Club
Taos Visitors Center
LLANO QUEMADO
STAKEOUT AREA To Santa Fé & Albuquerque
Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
CAÑÓN EO
TAOS CANYON
ANGEL FIRE
D E L CAÑÓN RD
WEIMER FOOTHILLS
To Pot Creek & Las Vegas
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Get to Know the enchanted circle
The Enchanted Circle encompasses Taos, Angel Fire, Eagle Nest, Red River and Questa. Known for its magnificent scenery and outdoor activities, the Enchanted Circle makes an outstanding day trip. Drive time is approximately 3 1/2 hours, but make plans for frequent stops along the way. It’s worth the extra time to discover the hidden treasures of Northern New Mexico.
Town of Taos
Taos CounTry CluB, sTakeouT area
Taos Plaza rests at the heart of the historic district, surrounded by shops, galleries and restaurants within easy walking distance, in the midst of quiet residential areas. It has a relatively flat landscape filled with cottonwood trees. Average home sale price: $233,704
BlueBerry Hill
A relatively new area of development with broad expanses of land affording unbroken mountain views, as well as the piñon-and-juniper covered “Outlaw Hill,” where Old West outlaws hid out from the law. Average home sale price: $413,250
ranCHos de Taos, Talpa, llano QueMado
An area of sagebrush mesas which is becoming an increasingly popular area for houses. Average home sale price: $308,477
upper las Colonias A varied area of sagebrush and juniper, with easy access to the town of Taos and affordable home options. Average home sale price: $207,807
arroyo Hondo, Hondo Mesa A village of old adobes and other dwellings along the Río Hondo, with a rolling high desert mesa stretching toward the Río Grande Gorge. Includes popular fishing spots, as well as the historic John Dunn Bridge. Arroyo Hondo average home sale price: $112,000 Hondo Mesa average home sale price: $167,000
arroyo seCo, el salTo, des MonTes Arroyo Seco is a picturesque village of galleries, shops and cafes, surrounded by the beautiful landscape and gorgeous views of the mountains. El Salto and Des Montes have rolling terrain with orchards and ranches. Arroyo Seco average home sale price: $318,100 El Salto average home sale price: $468,500 Des Montes average home sale price: $378,213
Taos ski Valley, Valdez Taos Ski Valley is world-renowned with both national and international clientele. Most of the businesses are open yearround for outdoor enthusiasts of every season. Valdez sits at the foot of the canyon accessing Taos Ski Valley, providing high-altitude living amidst woodlands and valleys along the Río Hondo. TSV average home sale price: $293,910 Valdez average home sale price: $435,000
Taos Canyon, Cañón This area is replete with hiking trails and campgrounds. Picturesque views of the mountainsides and the Rio Fernando combine to form a lush, green landscape. Taos Canyon average home sale price: $216,667 Cañón average home sale price: $424,333
Home of the most photographed church in the country (San Francisco de Asís), Ranchos de Taos is accented with quaint adobe structures, galleries and shops. High terrain and ridges afford views of the Río Grande Gorge and mountains. Ranchos de Taos average home sale price: $150,683 Talpa average home sale price: $241,083 Llano Quemado average home sale price: $213,800
weiMer fooTHills An upscale neighborhood of rolling hills which is growing in popularity. It is close to schools, Holy Cross Hospital and the Taos Youth and Family Center. Building restrictions keep mountain and foothill views relatively unbroken. Average home sale price: $406,694
el prado, ranCHiTos, CórdoVas El Prado is comprised of meadows and ranch lands with small shops, cafes and other businesses along the highway. Ranchitos and Los Córdovas are similar but more residential. All have excellent views of Taos Mountain. El Prado average home sale price: $325,173 Lower Ranchitos average home sale price: $340,000 Upper Ranchitos Average home sale price: N/A Córdovas average home sale price: $310,000
angel fire Cradled in the beautiful Moreno Valley, Angel Fire is a favorite destination for skiers in the winter and golfers, hikers and music lovers in the summer. Angel Fire is the fastest growing municipality in New Mexico. Average home sale price: $292,632
red riVer This historic ski town invites visitors to explore its wild west history along with their many shops and restaurants. Surrounded by the Carson National Forest, the village rests in a valley, with the Red River running through it. Average home sale price: $251,4967
Information was provided by Jim Kimmons of Gallery Realty (www.galleryrealtyoftaos.com) and trulia.com. DISCLAIMER: Statistics are based on MLS information for the period January 1, 2012 through December 31, 2012. Neither the REALTORS® Association of New Mexico nor the Taos County Association of REALTORS® guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy. Data is maintained by the Taos County Association of REALTORS® and may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.
Enchanted Enchanted Homes Homes Vol. Vol. XCII XCI •
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Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
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By TeResa DOVaLPaGe
charMing cOMfOrt statiOns FOUR UniqUe TaOs ResTROOms taos’ architectural style has gotten national and international recognition. the massive vigas, high beams and thick adobe walls are often mentioned when talking about local dining halls, hotels and shops. in all of them, there is a room that seldom gets that of attention, though people use it regularly — the restroom. this is the recount of a four-publicbathroom experience that goes from gorgeous to whimsical. Magic realism meets baroque.
OrlandO’s new Mexican café: cOlOrs and tiles The artsy New Mexican décor that characterizes Orlando’s dining rooms and patio continues all the way to the bathroom. The Talavera sink and the mirror framed in blue and yellow Mexican tiles give the room a colorful vibe, accentuated by the pink walls and bright red door. A terracotta clay sun hangs from a wall. “I probably got it here in Taos, at El Camino Real,” said owner Orlando Ortega. “The light fixtures are from Guadalajara, Mexico and the tile came from Vargas Tile.” Ortega himself made some of the furniture. The bathroom vanity was a nightstand, which he remodeled and painted. “My idea for the bathroom was to create a comfortable room that had the same style of the dining rooms,” he said. In this bathroom, as in the entire restaurant, color is king.
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SlEEK ContEMPorarY warM
El MontE Sagrado: an award winning rEStrooM El Monte Sagrado Resort and Spa was named the “Readers Choice Best Eco Spa” by Spa Finder in 2012. This is just one of many awards that also include “America’s Best Restrooms” given by Cintas Corporation in 2008 to the bathroom located next to the Anaconda Bar. The design has an earthy yet contemporary feel. The upper part of the walls is covered with cork from Portugal, which made the room feel comfortable and warm. The sink has a sleek washbasin with water springing from the wall, and the slabs of stone above it contain fivemillion-year-old fossilized fish from Wyoming. “Water conservation was an important issue for former owner Tom Worrell, who built the resort,” said Executive Assistant Kelly Rudy. “We have a Living Machine that takes all the black and grey water from the main building (including the bathrooms) and runs it through a set of filtration systems. The water is used in our hydroponic reactor and then returns to the aquifer.” A luxury bathroom in harmony with the Earth.
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Taos Mesa Brewing: eco-friendly and arTisTic The murals that adorn the bathrooms and the elaborate texture of the walls are their most interesting features. The murals were painted by a local artist who created a large version of a computer circuit for each of them. The walls, sketched with original designs, also have tile artwork. The bathroom stalls are all made with recycled metal. The whimsical light sconces are recycled bookshelves bought from Santa Fe Borders Books when the store was closed. In this green building, the bathrooms have low-flush toilets and waterless urinals. Co owner Dan Irion said that he built this elaborate bathroom while waiting for the fire suppression inspection, which took months. “I kept adding finishing touches to it and the rest of the team kidded me, joked that I was trying to do a work of art,” he said. “Well, it did finally turn into a work of art.”
VinTage cHeeKy elaBoraTe
Taos MercanTile: THe sacred and THe profane The vintage-inspired pop culture spirit that is a trademark of the store permeates the bathroom too. The door is protected on the outside by a multicolored beaded curtain with an image of the Virgin of Guadalupe. Inside, the door is covered
Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
with vintage bottle caps plus cards containing Pueblo scenes, flowers and saints — Saint Theresa, Saint Francis of Assisi and many others — glued to the door. It may be difficult to do your business under the gaze of a threefoot-tall image of the Sacred Heart of Mary, but once you get over the initial impression, this bathroom is quite a work of cheeky, colorful art.
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www.vishumagee.com
Because we know you want to live here.
Find all the Taos MLS real estate listings with one click www.taosnews.com
Powered by Dreamcatcher Real Estate Company Photo by Seth Bullington
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Enchanted Enchanted Homes Homes Vol. Vol. XCII XCII ••
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Maxim Petrichuk / Shutterstock.com
Taos CounTy Community Profile
The boundaries of Taos County stretch from the Colorado border on the north to the Cañon del Río Grande on the south. Containing 22,000 square miles, the 7,000-foot high Taos valley is bounded in the east by the soaring Sangre de Cristos of the southern Rockies, and in the west by the lower Tusas Range. The terrain crosses a half-dozen ecological zones, from high-alpine tundra to sage grasslands; thus, weather is often localized. The Río Grande carves a deep gorge down the center of the valley, which is dotted with old volcanic cones and necks. Tribal members of Picuris Pueblo have lived near Peñasco for centuries. Taos Pueblo is the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the United States and the northernmost of the 19 Río Grande pueblos. Pueblo history traces back some 1,000 years – centuries before the first Europeans arrived in the late 1500s. These conquistadors claimed the land for Spain, and soon Spanish and Mexican land grantees settled in the Taos area. Ancestral acequias still divert water from seven watersheds along the Sangre de Cristo front into pastures, fields and orchards. Roughly 50 percent of Taos County’s 1,444,480 acres is federal land, primarily U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management. About 38 percent of the county is private. Native Americans own 4.3 percent, and state lands make up 6.7 percent. Federal lands accommodate hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, ATV and snowmobiling, hunting and fishing. Golfers tee off at Taos Country Club and Valle Escondido; skiers and snowboarders carve up Taos Ski Valley and Sipapu Ski Area. Government jobs predominate in the local economy and, in the last several decades, tourism has replaced agriculture as a primary economic driver. Real estate and home construction provide revenues and jobs. Visitors come to experience the
tri-culture atmosphere, the hundred-mile views and adobe stylings – and many return for good. The county is home to a significant number of retirees, many of whom have already purchased second homes. It is also home to several off-the-grid communities west of the Río Grande, including the Earthships of the Greater World Community.
agriCulture
towns, Villages & settlements
Source: National Agricultural Statistics Service (2007)
Incorporated (population): Taos (5,545), Questa (1,898), Red River (513), Taos Ski Valley (69)
Number of farms: 637 Total farmland: 456,932 acres Average size: 717 acres Market value of avg. products sold: $5,992,000 (61% livestock, 39% crops) Largest crops: Cattle/calves, hay/alfalfa
temPerature Month
High
Low
Unincorporated: Amalia, Arroyo Seco, Costilla, Ojo Caliente, Pilar, Peñasco, Ranchos de Taos, Talpa, Tres Piedras, Valdez
January
42
11
February
47
18
March
55
24
PoPulation
April
63
30
Estimated 2012 population: 32,779
May
73
39
Source: UNM Bureau of Business and Economic Research
June
83
47
Pueblos
July
87
52
Taos Pueblo: Sovereign government, governor with nine members, war chief with 12 members, all serving one-year terms: www.taospueblo.com
August
84
51
September
78
43
Picuris Pueblo: Sovereign government, governor serves two-year term: www.newmexico.org/picuris
October
66
32
November
53
21
December
43
12
Average
65
32
workforCe statistiCs (2012) Civilian labor force: 16,587 Employed: 15,128 Unemployed: 1,459 Unemployment Rate: 8.8% Source: Department of Workforce Solutions
Voter registration (2013) Total registered voters: 24,868 Democrats: 17,034 Republicans: 3,278 Minority Party: 926 Not affiliated: 3,630
Source: National Climatic Data Center
samPle of rental PriCes (all prices are approximate) Small one-bedroom apt. near plaza: $575-600 Two-bedroom adobe, Talpa: $750 Mid-range two-bedroom house, El Prado: $800 Two-bedroom condo w/courtyard, Taos: $900 Three-bedroom house, Blueberry Hill: $1,150-1,250 Source: Kokopelli Property Management
Source: Bureau of Elections
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Town of Taos Community Profile The 5.4 square miles of the incorporated town of Taos spreads beneath the shadow of Pueblo Peak (12,305 feet), bounded roughly by the Río Lucero on the north and Río Grande de Ranchos on the south. At 7,000 feet in elevation, Taos experiences winter lows in the single digits and summer highs in the low-90s. Long isolated from the outside world, Taos began to grow in the 1960s with an influx of hippies to nearby communes, and continues to this day with young ski bums, rafters and older retirees. Commercial activity centers on the plaza area and along north and south ends of Paseo del Pueblo, the main thoroughfare. A popular home for Southwest artists, Taos boasts dozens of galleries, boutiques and craft shops — plus renowned studio tours, and art and crafts festivals. Dozens of restaurants serve up all variety of cuisine; the Northern New Mexico red-sauce dishes are renowned. Just south of town sits St. Francis de Asís Catholic Church, reputed to be the most-photographed church in America. The Catholic influence can be seen in the cemeteries, roadside descansos, and neighborhood churches. Taos is home to the county government and district
courts. The U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management have a strong presence in town. On the outskirts of town, pastures, fields and gardens are irrigated by ancestral acequias extending from the rivers and streams.
North Central Regional Transit District: regional service, (505) 629-4725, www.ncrtd.org Taos Regional Airport: general aviation (575) 758-4995, www.taosairport.org
HealtH serviCes
PoPulation
Holy Cross Hospital (575) 758-8883, www.taoshospital.org
Estimated Taos 2011: 5,713 Source: UNM Bureau of Business and Economic Research
Taos Urgent Care (575) 751-1006
PubliC reCreation faCilities General: Taos Youth and Family Center, www. taosyouth.com, (575) 758-4160, with game room, video games, swimming pool, ice rink; Fred Baca Park, Kit Carson Park
Taos VA Clinic (575) 751-0328
Hiking/Biking: Carson National Forest, www. fs.usda.gov/carson, (575) 758-6200; Bureau of Land Management, Taos Field Office, (575) 7588851; Ute Mountain and Rio Grande del Norte National Conservation Area; popular trails include Devisadero Loop, South Boundary Trail, Rim Trail.
Tri-County Community Services (mental health) (575) 758-1125
Athletics: Taos Eco-Park (soccer, lacrosse)
Santa Fe: 70 miles Albuquerque: 131 miles Denver: 287 miles Dallas: 674 miles Phoenix: 595 miles
Mountain Home Health Care (575) 758-4786, www.mtnhomehealth.com
Taos Women’s Health Institute (575) 751-0334, www.taoswomenshealth.org
Driving DistanCes
PubliC transPortation Chile Line: local and area service, (575) 751-4459, www.taosgov.com/transportation/chile-line.php
Current Happenings in Taos Real Estate
of Taos
RE/MAX sells 1 home every 42 seconds!
Each Office Independently Owned & Operated
723 Paseo del Pueblo Sur Taos, New Mexico 87571
www.taosmls.com remax@taos.newmex.com 575-758-5400 866-737-5400
Linda Valaika, Owner/Broker
COMPARISON OF 2012 - 2013 REAL ESTATE ACTIVITY January 1, 2013 - July 18, 2013 2013 2012 % of change Residential Sold Properties Average Sold Price Volume Sold Land Sold Properties Average Sold Price Volume Sold Multi-Family Sold Properties Commercial Sold Properties Average Sold Price Volume Sold
90 322,002 28,980,200
75 246,293 18,472,023
20% 31% 57%
31 67,702 2,098,775
19 83,236 1,581,500
63% -19% 33%
0
0
0%
4 327,000 1,308,000
3 316,366 949,100
33% 3% 38%
CURRENT REAL ESTATE ACTIVITY Current Residential Properties Average Listed Price Volume Current Land Listings Average Listed Price Volume
3.5%
$100,000
11 $531,618 $5,847,800
Current Commercial Listings Average Listed Price Volume
21 $824,523 $17,315,000
$449.00
*Rates quoted represent average rates without points and vary depending on credit score, loan size, and loan to value.
These statistics were obtained through data available from Taos County Board of Realtors. Rates provided courtesy of Wells Fargo Mortgage
Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
324 $192,399 $62,337,435
Current Multi-Family Listing Average Listed Price Volume
RATES ARE GOING UP. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE RATES WHILE YOU STILL CAN Fixed Interest Rates Monthly Payment* $100,000 $514.13 30 year Fixed Rate 4.625% $100,000 $727.22 15 year Fixed Rate 3.75% Adjustable Interest Rates 5 year ARM
299 $490,402 $146,630,474
63 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
Red RiveR Community Profile
riding on horses is a popular summer activity.
The town of Red River nestles along the Red River, a mountain tributary to the Río Grande. The settlement sits at 8,750 feet elevation, surrounded by Carson National Forest and the Sangre de Cristo mountains. The climate is montane and alpine, with winter lows below zero and summer highs in the 70s. Thunderstorms often roll through on summer afternoons.
The town of Red River administers municipal services for residents, visitors and nearly 200 businesses in the community. The town hosts a number of popular summertime events, beginning with the Memorial Day Motorcycle Rally that typically attracts more than 20,000 motorcyclists for the long weekend.
Gold miners in the mid-1800s first settled the area. These days, the local economy relies upon winter tourists who come to ski and snowboard, and summer tourists who come to hike, mountain bike, drive ATVs and relax in the cool temperatures. Some 1,200 seasonal homes house many of these visitors. Red River Ski Area rises to the south of town with a vertical drop of 1,600 feet. The mountain includes 58 trails and six lifts on 290 acres, and typically attracts more than 120,000 ticketbuyers in a winter season. In the summer, lifts run for mountain bikers, hikers and sightseers.
Estimated 2011: 477 year-round; approx. 4,000 seasonal
For a fee, wintertime enthusiasts can explore the 21 miles of groomed skiing and snowshoeing trails at Enchanted Forest Cross Country and Snowshoe Area, located three miles east of town. In town, private rental services lease out snowmobiles, ATVs, Jeeps and trail Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
PoPulation Sources: UNM Bureau of Business and Economic Research; Red River Comprehensive Plan
PubliC transPortation Red River Miner’s Transit: free year-round service, with door-to-door service, www.redriver.org/publictransit, (575) 770-5959; town-operated heliport
Driving DistanCes Taos: 36 miles Santa Fe: 106 miles Albuquerque: 165 miles Denver: 275 miles Dallas: 648 miles Oklahoma City: 511 miles
64 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
Your Taos Ski Valley Specialist!
TAOS SKI VALLEY Community Profile
Residential Property Tax: 17.875 mills
Taos Ski Valley sits at the head of the Río Hondo Canyon, surrounded by Carson National Forest in what is known as the La Cal Basin. The state’s highest peak, Wheeler Peak (13,167), rises to the east, and the ridge off Kachina Peak (12,481) sets the western boundary. The climate is montane and alpine, with winter lows below zero and summer highs in the 70s.
Sources: UNM Bureau of Business & Economic Research; Taos County Assessor’s Office
The economy of the area is dominated by Taos Ski Valley, a world-class winter sports mountain that is known for its steep trails and an average of 300 inches of snowfall. The basin first attracted settlement when gold and copper were discovered in the early 1900s. Ski valley founder Ernie Blake put up the first ski lift in 1956 and, to this day, the resort is owned by the Blake family. The base area, at 9,200 feet elevation, includes day and overnight facilities. The mountain has 14 lifts and 110 trails, with a vertical drop of 2,612 feet. Typically, about 250,000 skiers and snowboarders (admitted in 2010) hit the slopes every year. Other winter activities include snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country and back-country skiing, and tubing. In the summer, the main chairlift takes hikers, mountain bikers and sightseers to midmountain. The Village of Taos Ski Valley, incorporated in 1996, encompasses 2.3 square miles in the valley and administers municipal services, such as water, sewer and police.
PoPulation Estimated Taos Ski Valley 2011: 69 year-round; up to 4,000 seasonal (winter) Source: Village of Taos Ski Valley Master Plan
taxes Gross Receipts Tax Rate: 8.6875% Lodgers Tax Rate: 5%
PubliC reCreation faCilities Hiking/Mountain Biking/X-C: Carson National Forest, www.fs.usda.gov/carson, (575) 758-6200; popular trails include Williams Lake Trail, Bull ‘O The Woods Trail, Gold Hill Trail, Yerba Canyon Trail, Gavilan Canyon Trail Fishing: Río Hondo, Lake Fork
form of Government Mayor and four-member village council, staggered four-year terms; village administrator
PubliC transPortation Taos Chile Line (Winter Only) www.taosgov.com (575) 751-4459 Taos Express (Winter Only) www.TaosExpress.com (575) 751-4459
st. moritz condominiums
Luxurious nEW condos in taos ski vaLLEy!
FrEE Hoa duEs For a yEar Beautiful architecture featuring scenic balconies with OUTSTANDING VIEWS. Most attractive building in neighborhood that makes the neighbors property look better. GREAT LOCATION! Just two minutes from the slopes, shops, restaurants and other establishments; but also TUCKED AWAY from the hustle and bustle. Quality construction with granite counter tops, travertine tiles, beautiful stone work, custom cabinets and gas fireplaces. Low HOA dues makes this new project very attractive. Special pricing on two units. MLS# 91263..........Unit 101 ............$349,000 .................1Br MLS# 91264..........Unit 102 ............$299,000 .............. *1Br MLS# 91266..........Unit 201 ............$350,000 .............. *2Br MLS# 91267..........Unit 202 ............$449,000 .................2Br MLS# 91268..........Unit 302 ............$449,000 .................2Br MLS# 91269..........Unit 301 ............$439,000 .................2Br MLS# 91270..........Unit 402 ............$409,000 .................1Br MLS# 91271..........Unit 401 ............$399,000 .................1Br *Special Price
TSV daily shuttle to Santa Fe and Albuquerque airports, (800) 776-1111 (Winter Only)
HealtH serviCes Mogul Medical Urgent Care Open during ski season only www.mogulmedical.com, (575) 776-8421
DrivinG DistanCes Taos: 19 miles Santa Fe: 87 miles Albuquerque: 149 miles Denver: 297 miles Oklahoma City: 543 miles Dallas: 693 miles
Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
www.tsvrealty.com Keith Dowell, Qualifying Broker (575) 776.0600
65 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
Courtesy Angel Fire Resot/Ryan Heffernan
Angel Fire
Community Profile Angel Fire is located at an elevation of 8,382 feet above sea level in the high Moreno Valley of Colfax County. The climate mirrors the Rocky Mountain setting that includes some of the highest peaks in New Mexico. About 210 inches of snow typically fall on Angel Fire in the winter, and average temperatures range between zero and 30 degrees F. Summertime highs rarely exceed 80 degrees F., with frequent afternoon thunderstorms that cool off midday temperatures. Surrounded by U.S. National Forest and private ranches, the incorporated Village of Angel Fire covers 18,450 acres. The village includes the general aviation Colfax County Airport and the Angel Fire Ski & Golf Resort, a private membership community overseen by the Association of Angel Fire Property Owners. The resort includes more than a thousand private homes, a 500-acre ski and snowboard mountain, a championship golf course, country club, fishing lake and other amenities for member-landowners. Non-members can pay to use most resort facilities. A favored hunting ground for the Utes, the Moreno Valley grew in the 1860s with the discovery of gold. Ranching dominated the local scene until the 1960s, when the first ski runs of Angel Fire
Resort were cut on Aqua Fria Peak. Tourism fuels the local economy, although several large working ranches still operate in the area.
Trails; Oeste Vista; Lake and Lady Slipper Trails
PoPulation
Fishing: Eagle Nest Lake State Park, (575) 377-1594; Cimarrón State Park, (575) 377-6271; Valle Vidal
Estimated 2011: 1,204 year-round; approx. 2,000 summer
Athletics: Angel Fire Sports Complex – soccer, softball, rugby
Source: UNM Bureau of Business & Economic Research; local Realtors
form of Government
taxes Gross Receipts Tax: 7.4375% Lodger’s Tax: 5% Sports & Recreation Fee: 2.4% Average Colfax County Property Tax: 7.69 mills Source: N.M. Dept. of Revenue
sChools Cimarrón Municipal School District: Cimarrón Elementary/Middle School; Eagle Nest Elementary/Middle School; Cimarrón High School; Moreno Valley High School
PubliC reCreation faCilities Hiking/Biking/Snowmobiling: Carson National Forest, www.fs.usda.gov/carson, (575) 758-6200; Cimarrón State Park, (575) 377-6271; Valle Vidal; popular trails including Sendoro and Bobcat Trails; Elliott Barker Trail Complex; Greenbelt
Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
Village Council with four members and mayor, four-year, staggered terms: www.angelfirenm.gov
PubliC transPortation None
health serviCes Moreno Valley Health Care Clinic 11 Elliott Barker Road No. A (575) 377-3301 UltiMed Clinic Ski Patrol Building Angel Fire Ski Resort (open in winter only) (575) 377-1805
DrivinG DistanCes Santa Fe: 92 miles Albuquerque: 154 miles Denver: 295 miles Dallas: 659 miles
66 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
67 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
real estate finance | Ted Dimond
Interest rates: Worst week in 10 years by tED DIMOND
R
esidential mortgage interest rates have remained quite steady for the last year and a half but the last week of June brought on the largest three-day increase in rates in at least 10 years.
According to Matthew Graham, columnist for Mortgage News Daily, “These three days toward the end of June were freakishly destructive – the worst week for mortgage rates we have on record.” Others described the week as unprecedented and few claimed to have anticipated that rates would increase by more than .25 percent (quarter point) in three days. This may not sound like much but in terms of daily movements in the mortgage industry it is the equivalent of an enormous financial storm. Rates, which remained under 4 percent for almost two years, now suddenly hit highs not seen since late 2011. Rates change daily. In fact on some days they change four to six times. They tend to move in small increments often referred to as basis points (BPS). One basis point is .01 percent or 1/100th of a percent. Rates often move in increments of 5 to 10 basis points but rarely more in any one shift. That is, if the current rate was 3.75 percent and it increased 5 BPS the resulting rate would be 3.8 percent. Through three days in June, rates increased more than 250 basis points and through the month increased almost 750 BPS or .75 percent on rate.
owned and-managed organization but like the overnight carrier the Fed is private, not public. In fact, it is a group of interrelated private corporations independent from (but entirely enmeshed with) the U.S. government that controls the movement of money throughout American Finance. It is subject to congressional oversight so it is not so much independent of government but rather independent within government. They used to actually control the amount of money available to circulate but these days they have the same impact via the lowering or increasing the overnight bank lending rate (which is directly related to prime — currently the overnight bank lending rate is as low as it can be — .25 percent and prime is, as always, 3 percent higher at 3.25 percent) as well as purchasing bonds as described above in an effort to keep long term interest rates down. The “Fed” was created by an act of Congress in 1913; responsibilities and duties have expanded and evolved over the last century. As noted earlier they affect interest rates and inject money into the system though the purchase of bonds. Additionally the Federal Reserve System provides the government with a steady source of loans and serves as a safe depository for federal monies. They also provide a mechanism for transferring funds between bank and government and assist in meeting payments on national debt and government salaries.
Not everyone is in agreement about either the powers or necessity for such an institution. Since it’s inception the Federal Reserve The sharp increase was attributed to Federal Reserve Bank Chairman System has been criticized as too big, too powerful and unaccountable Ben Bernanke’s June 19 news conference at which he said the central to the American people. Chairmen aren’t elected but rather appointed bank might end the $85 billion per month bond-buying program by by the president and this appointment is made with the needs of the middle of next year as long as the economy continues to improve. big Wall Street Banks in mind according to critics. Libertarian and The bond-buying program was an effort to keep interest rates low in other independent politicians often call for more regulation and hopes of stimulating among other things home and auto purchases. transparency while others call for the end of the system altogether. The concern for many is that these increased rates will slow down Regardless of one’s opinion of the system there’s no argument over purchasing and compromise the gains the economy has made. the great impact it has on the country’s economy. It took only the Maybe this is a good place to pause to ask who or what the Federal suggestion of a policy change next spring from Chairman Bernanke to Reserve Bank is. It is actually a federal reserve system made up catalyze the largest three-day increase in rates in at least 10 years. of 12 Federal Reserve Banks. They are jointly responsible for implementing money policy and regulating the commercial banks in Ted Dimond has lived in Taos since 1976. He has been a residential their own particular district. mortgage broker since 1994 and has owned and operated Dimond Mortgage with his wife Vanessa since 2003. Ted can be reached via Like Federal Express the Federal Reserve sounds like a governmentemail Ted@dimondmortgage.com.
Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
68 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
69 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
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Harvey Blaustein 575-770-2220 hblau4@gmail.com
603 Camino de la Placita Taos, NM 87571 www.harveyblaustein.com 575.737.5678
Sophisticated, Spacious And Spectacular…
In the Canon foothills, where those who have choice choose to live, we proudly offer a home on a double lot, with a taste for privacy and 75 to 100 mile views. The 3500 sq ft of living space is generous, with floor to ceiling windows, art deco features, courtyards and patios aplenty. $1,295,000 mls 93646
Perfect For Entertaining…
In the highly desirable Weimer area, we proudly offer a 3 bedroom, 3 bath home that is spacious and pretty. Created for those that love to entertain, the indoors flows to the outdoors, the views are amazing, the fountains bring serenity, and the landscaping is mature. $695,000 mls 93710
Idyllic And Serene…
On highly desirable Valverde Street, where one can walk to the plaza, museums, restaurants, galleries and shops, we proudly offer this 2 bedroom 2 bath condo with a one car garage and a water feature that creates a feeling not often found in town. $419,000 mls 93825
Sweet And Affordable…
At the northern end of Blueberry Hill Road, we proudly offer a cottage that’s as cute as a button. Set on ¾ of an acre with great views of the mountains, this small and super energy efficient home is two stories and just 750 sq ft. $165,900 mls 93723
Live Large…
In the prestigious Taos Country Club, we proudly offer a grand and spacious home of 3 bedrooms and 2 baths with a two bedroom casita attached. The main house is adobe, with an impressive entry, high ceilings and large rooms, - great for entertaining. $795,000 mls 93531
“We get things done on time every time. It’s important to us.” Harvey Blaustein, Qualifying Broker Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
71 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com
Enchanted Homes Vol. XCII •
72 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com