February/March 2015

NORTHERN NEW MEXICO’S REAL ESTATE & LIVING MAGA ZINE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015

THE

KITCHEN AND BATH ISSUE

BOLD USE OF COLOR AT THIS DES MONTES ADOBE BATHROOM MIRRORS REFLECT YOUR STYLE

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

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, Associate Broker • (575) 741-0603 Peter Blake, Associate Broker • (575) 779-1869 Chris Stagg, Associate Broker • (575) 776-7490 Website: pinoninvestmentsoftaos.com E-mail: pinoneb@newmex.com

VISTA GRANDE

DES MONTES

Magnificent Hacienda style adobe home in Des Montes, "Casa Alegre", built in 2005 by Ken Wolosin. Almost 5000 sq ft of exquisitely maintained home, great room extraordinaire, the ultimate in a gourmet kitchen. Master suite with attached office and separate wing for guest suites, each with own bath. Great exterior spaces, with interior courtyard and huge portal for western vistas. Water features, hot tub and landscape on drip. An entertainer's delight with a plethora of storage space. MLS #92605 $895,000

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 $1,250,000

UPPER COLONIAS MAGIC!

DES MONTES

Charming, gracious, well maintained Pueblo style home in desirable Upper Colonias. 3400 square feet, 4 bedroom, 3 bath home on 3.95 acres. Tremendous views of Taos Mountain. Upstairs master suite with separate tub and shower. Includes private deck for sunning and star gazing. This a must see. Easy to show, call for an appointment today. Priced to sell at $699,000.

MLS 96195

Lovely 3 br/1ba adobe on ~6 acres of pinon & juniper. Very private and serene with tremendous views. Brick floors, vigas and latillas.

Passive solar with trombe wall. Private portal and buffalo grass yard.

Drip irrigation. Incredibly efficient energy saving home. Excellent neighborhood with 4 acre minimums and smart restrictions. This home has never been on the market. Pristine and lovingly cared for, this adobe calls out peacefully. MLS #95395 #449,000

VALDEZ FOOTHILLS

TAOS SKI VALLEY

Million dollar views at a discount, a very well built contemporary home in the Valdez Foothills, 3 bedroom 2.5 bath home exquisitely maintained. Cathedral ceiling in living room opens to dining area and gourmet kitchen. 2nd floor master suite with private covered deck. Steam unit in master bath. 2 other bedrooms with 2nd living room and loft. Wolf oven and range, w’ Subzero frig and wine cooler.

Cherry cabinets. Privacy & serenity and oh so convenient for access to TSV and Arroyo Seco. MLS 95670 $725,000

Prime commercial space, almost six tenths of an acre across from the new Taos Ski Valley drop off point. This is the former Thunderbird Hotel site. Price available on request. MLS #95678

ix e P our l c Cir al T tu Vir

PROTECT YOUR HOME

Welcome from the Taos County Chamber of Commerce ¡Bienvenidos!

The winter snows are here — certainly a reason to celebrate on our slopes and in our shops, restaurants and galleries. The community is invigorated with the sound of crunching snow beneath our boots and clear blue skies overhead.

And snow brings great enjoyment to those who play in it from downhill and cross-country skiing to guided snowmobile and snowshoe tours to sleigh rides and tubing. Welcome and join us at gathering spots to enjoy hot cocoa and biscochitos after a thrilling day of winter adventure.

AND DISCOVER WHY SO MANY NEW MEXICANS TRUST THEIR HOMES TO WANDA LUCERO

The Taos County Chamber of Commerce invites you to explore the Enchanted Circle through the pages of this Enchanted Homes Magazine and around the 87-mile loop that encompasses our Photo by Katharine Egli communities of Questa, Red River, Eagle Nest, Angel Fire, Taos, Taos Pueblo, and Taos Ski Valley. Look for beautiful views of sparkling valleys, ice-encrusted rivers and trees trimmed with snow during the winter months.

Wanda Lucero, Agent 211 Kit Carson Road 575-737-5433 wandalucero.com

The members of the Taos County Chamber of Commerce include our local shops, banks, service providers, hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, restaurants, galleries and museums, medical and legal professionals, town and county employees and individuals all work together to “Keep Taos Local.” The Chamber supports these efforts with our “Keep Taos Local, put your money where your heart is!” campaign that encompasses and expands on the national efforts to be mindful of our small, independent businesses. Please visit our stores, galleries, restaurants, and museums to ensure this unique community thrives for generations to come!

2015 is a year to celebrate in Taos, as in 1615 Taos was established as a Spanish village. It is the 100th anniversary of the Taos Society of Artists, the 60th ski season at Taos Ski Valley, and the 50th anniversary of accessibility to western Taos County over the Río Grande Gorge Bridge. Of course the Taos Pueblo has been continuously inhabited for over a 1,000 years and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Our enchanted land is not only steeped in history but also has the future well in hand with the new Río Grande del Norte National Monument — 310,528 acres of beautiful land, river and gorge in Northern New Mexico.

“People’s Choice Award”

1

#

Best Insurance Agent

The Taos County Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to creating a community of possibilities and opportunities for those new to Taos and lifelong Taoseños.

Our slogan of “Taos County Chamber of Commerce makes business better” is guiding our efforts to include all businesses and individuals in an enhanced life in Taos County.

Please feel free to contact us for more information. Visit our website at www.taoschamber.com for member events and current information.

Welcome and enjoy our wonderful Taos County!

Susan Cady Executive Director

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

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Business for Sale Popular, established and successful

www.cftaos.com

www.cftaos.com

524 Paseo del Pueblo Norte • Taos, New Mexico

534 Paseo del Pueblo Norte • Taos, New Mexico

: Inquiries: Inquiries William Swan - The Coach Rachel Lewis 575-770-1156 rachel.taos@gmail.com bnswan@newmex.com 214-546-1962

NOBODY SELLS MORE REAL ESTATE THAN REMAX Mountain Realty Each Office Independently Owned & Operated

We feature all Taos and Angel Fire MLS listings on our website:

Contact Linda at 575-770-2786

www.taosmls.com remax@newmex.com

CALL LINDA

575 770-2786 LINDA VALAIKA, ASSOCIATE BROKER

ADOBE HOME WITH STUDIO

REDUCED TO SELL

AUTHENTIC ADOBE HOME with 400 sq ft heated studio located in the Weimer area with foothill and mountain views. 2 courtyards with gardens 2 car garage, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, with family room/office and living room. Kiva fireplace in living room and family room. tile floors, vigas in the ceilings. Total heated sq ft of 2629. Excellent value for an adobe home. MLS 95679, Asking $499,000

40 ACRES of magnificent mountain and foothill views. Stunning 3 BR 2 BA adobe home with 2233 sf with high ceilings, brick floors, 3kiva FP. commercial Wolf range. GUEST HOUSE is 781 sf with 1 BR 1 BA , STUDIO has 400 sf, 1500 sf Garage with 17 ft ceilings, electricity, and roll up door. MLS 94456 Asking $469,000

GOOD LOCATION IN TOWN

FORECLOSURE

ATTRACTIVE PUEBLO STYLE HOME in good location close to schools, medical facilities, consumer services. 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 1688 sq ft on 1.78 acres. Cement floors in living room and kitchen, carpet in bedrooms, Kiva fireplace in living room. Nice mountain views. Buyer must submit prequal letter with offer MLS 95895 Asking $179,900 GET-AWAY CABIN WITH VIEWING DECK

CABIN WITH FANTASTIC VIEWS of Jicarita Mtn and the valley. Lots of windows so the cabin is light and bright. 2 bedroom 1 bath A frame with apprx 900 sq ft and large deck for bbqing, viewing the changing colors of the aspens or snow capp'e d Jicarita Mtn, or watching the elk heard in the meadow. Cabin has been well maintained and is in move in condition. Close to ski ing, fishing, hiking.

SUPERB LOCATION IN TOWN with foothill and mountain views. Well maintained 3 bedrooms 1.5 baths with apprx 1560 sq feet. Large 1 acre lot with many fruit trees and pine trees. 3 car heated garage. Community and well water.

Close to schools,medical facilities, consumer services and recreation venues. MLS 95557 Asking $249,000

FORECLOSURE

GOOD LOCATION IN HISTORIC DISTRICT on Montoya Street. Very short distance to the plaza, shops, restaurants, galleries. 3 bedrooms plus den, 2 car detached garage and large workshop.

MLS 95916 Asking $173,500

MLS 92700 Asking $119,000

GREAT LOCATION IN HISTORIC DISTRICT

CHARMING CONDO IN TOWN with 1 bedroom and 1 bath, wood floors, large eat in kitchen. Adobe walled courtyard looks into common area with pond and mature trees and plantings. Easy walking distance to restaurants, shops, museums, park. Square footage per assessors records. MLS 95219 Asking $205,000

NEW LISTING

Charming territorial style home in idyllic location. Wood stove in living room, turquoise counter top tile in kitchen, cozy dining room. 2 bedrooms downstairs with large studio upstairs which could be an additional bedroom. Great pasture and foothill views from the large upstairs studio. Enclosed sunroom is light and bright for all your plants. Garage has water and electric. Property is fenced with board and wire fencing.

Acequia is a nice water feature. MLS 93952 Asking $189,000

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

MOTIVATED SELLER

SUPER CLEAN, WELL MAINTAINED 3 bedroom 1 bath home with fenced back yard and mountain views.

Convenient location in town, close to schools,parks, youth and family center. Office space off of master bedroom has 220 volt electric outlet. New furnace in 2012, new washer and dryer. New carpet in summer. Very motivated sellers. MLS 94343, Asking $155,000 NEW LISTING

NICE WOODED LOT that borders the Carson National forest. Several good building sites. Year round access with utilities at the lot line. Close to many recreation areas for hiking, biking, skiing, fishing, golfing, medical facilities, schools. Located in the well maintained Lavender Farrell subdivision with restrictions. MLS 96118 Asking $60,000

5 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

ENERGYEFFICIENT HIGH PERFORMANCE

CONSTRUCTION

We Can Design & Build Your New Home On Your Land SPECIAL OFFER

99.90

$

Base Price Per Sq Ft plus tax

2x6 Finished Construction Several Floor Plans to choose from

505-577-0000

for Details www.SustainableInc.net/offer

Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and General Contractor License #383534 Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

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Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

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welcome | enchanted homes

INSIDE

Owner Robin Martin Publisher Chris Baker Editor Joan Livingston Managing Editor/ Creative Director Julie Osmanski Advertising Director Chris Wood Sales Manager Alan Wilkins Graphic Design Sally Brooks Jennifer Taphorn Photography Katharine Egli Vishu Magee

14

in this issue 3

Enchanted Homes February/March 2015, Vol. CI

A Letter from The Taos County Chamber of Commerce

54 Enchanted Circle Area Map 56 Taos County Community Profile

14 Bold use of color at this Des Montes adobe

59 9 Questions: Bryan Loveless, co-owner of Loveless Stone and Tile

24 Bathroom mirrors reflect your style

60 Taos Ski Valley Community Profile

32 Joel and Marny Schantz; A match made in Taos real estate

61 Red River Community Profile

44 Inside Out: Creative elements and furnishings for your home

63 Angel Fire Community Profile

46 Here & There: Real Estate in Taos vs. Boulder, Colorado 50 4 Outstanding kitchens from our first 100 issues 52 Real Estate Finance: Appraisals key in residential mortgage lending

Contributing Writers Harvey Blaustein Andy Dennison Ted Dimond Teresa Dovalpage Vishu Magee Yvonne Pesquera

62 Questa Community Profile 64 Building Green: Seven steps to a gourmet kitchen 67 Realtor Profile: Tara Chisum 70 Market Share: Well-designed kitchens and baths make great selling points

Cover Art: Ann Huston Pastel on Artist Sandpaper 22" x 28" "The Yearling" Studio de Colores Gallery 119 Quesnel St., Taos, NM 87571 575-751-3502 or 575.776.2890 colores@decoloresgallery.com www.decoloresgallery.com

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. CI •

226 Albright St., Taos, NM 87571 575.758.2241 • www.taosnews.com

10 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

Your Taos Ski Valley Specialist!

Keith Dowell, Qualifying Broker Phone: (575) 776.0600 www.TSVRealty.com

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 with great rental history and on-site management. Property amenities: 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.

MLS# 92692 ......Unit 201 .......$329,000 .........................SOLD MLS# 94623 ......Unit 206 .......$559,000 .................2BR / 2BA MLS# 93774 ......Unit 212 .......$541,000 .................2BR / 2BA MLS# 95141 ......Unit 303 .......$859,000 .................3BR / 3BA MLS# 92811 ......Unit 407 .......$725,000 .................3BR / 3BA MLS# 92812 ......Unit 409 .......$550,000 .................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 ....... $399,000 ......... 2BR / 2BA MLS# 89854 ........Unit 402 ....... $519,000 ......... 3BR / 3BA MLS# 92781 ........Unit 406 ....... $519,000 ......... 3BR / 3BA

RESIDENTIAL LOTS IN TAOS SKI VALLEY

MLS# 95878 ....$235,000 ..........90 acres MLS# 95643 ....$279,000 ...... 1.14 acres MLS# 95644 ....$299,000 ...... 1.20 acres MLS# 95645 ....$309,000 ..........78 acres

POWDERHORN CONDOMINIUMS

SNOWBEAR CONDOMINIUM

Upscale SKI IN - SKI OUT Condominium in TAOS SKI VALLEY. Featuring a Modern but Rustic Decor stimulated with OUTSTANDING VIEWS. This unit features a living/bedroom combination and an additional separate bedroom. LOW HOA DUES that Includes a hot tub, parking and shuttle.

Established Rental Program already in place . Check out prices of other ski in-ski out condo’s. Enjoy Cool Mountain Summers!

MLS# 93547 ........Chamonix #3.....$179,900 ..... 2BR / 2BA

RIVER SPUR HOME

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# 94640.........Unit 102 ........$209,000 ..............1BR / 1BA MLS# 92472.........Unit 204 ........$181,000 .............. 1BR / 1BA

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# 92137 .....$169,000 ......... .98 acre MLS# 92139 .....$169,000 ..... 1.01 acres MLS# 92140 .....$219,000 ..... 1.41 acres

Majestic home located on the Hondo River! Modern and rusitc with casual elegance. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION. Steps away from the new Pioneer Glade Lift!! Excellent construction and world class location. Water views and features are second to none with three decks and one large patio. Granite counters and quality appliances throughout the home. Great investment as vacant lots next door sold for $500,000.

MLS# 95840 ............$879,400 ............4BR / 4BA Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

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Your Taos Ski Valley Specialist!

Keith Dowell, Qualifying Broker Phone: (575) 776.0600 www.TSVRealty.com

LAKE FORK CONDO

Upscale SKI IN / SKI OUT condo! On the Rio Hondo. Great views of the river and slopes. Lots ofsun light. Great ploor plan.

Affordable dues. NEW roof, Jacuzzi bathtub, wood stove, storage closet, steam shower, COVERED PARKING! Good Rental history.

MLS# 94152 .........Unit #9 ..............$349,000

SIERRA DEL SOL 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.

UNDER CONTRACT! MLS# 95400 .................$249,000 .................... 2BR / 2BA

LAKE FORK CONDO

SKI IN / SKI OUT! Top floor unit with HIGH vaulted ceilings! Great views of RIVER and SLOPES. Lots of sun light. Deck is right above River!! UPSCALE turn-key unit. Affordable dues, NEW Roof, Jacuzzi bathtub, wood stove, steam shower, large storage closet.

COVERED PARKING! Owner/Broker MLS# 94072 .........Unit #5 ..............$439,000

TAOS EAST CONDOMINIUMS

Deluxe mountain condo in the heart of the Rockies directly on the Rio Hondo. Exudes a rustic, casual elegance. Well appointed with new appliances and decor. Enjoy the ambiance of the river and the alpine scenery. Only 4BR condo in TSV! MLS# 92911 ....$199,000 $149,000 ............4BR / 2BA MLS# 93759 ........ $85,000 $64,000 ............1BR / 1BA MLS# 94482 ..................... $129,000 ............2BR / 2BA MLS# 94750 ..................... $199,000 ............4BR / 2BA

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 Reduced to $649,000

LUXURIOUS HOUSE CLOSE TO THE LIFT!

Custom Home with Exclusive Remodel in 2010. Winner of the 2011 ASID STUDENT DESIGN AWARD, located just steps from the new Pioneer Glade ski lift. Modern, rustic home features high end appliances. Gourmet kitchen with granite island, spacious enclosed loft with reading nook. Great room with vaulted ceilings, fans, and high efficiency fire place. Scenic “TREX” Deck, radiant heat and fiber cement siding!

MLS# 95814 .........$779,000 ............... 3BR / 3BA

QUALITY HOME ON THE HONDO RIVER!

This well constructed home takes complete advantage of the river. You can BBQ, hot tub, or fish off the patio and deck and take in the sounds and views of the river. Enjoy everything the mountain has to offer from skiing, hiking, snowboarding, and more! Large, user-friendly kitchen, efficient wood stove, and neat bath tub. Just 3 miles from TSV and a short drive to the Town of Taos truly makes this a world class location!! Excellent rental income history and comes almost completely furnished.

MLS# 95961 ...........$495,000.................2BR / 2.5BA with large Loft Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

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Bold use of color

at this Des Montes adobe

BY Y VONNE PESQUERA PHOTOGRAPHY BY K ATHARINE EGLI

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

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H

omes offer a unique paradox.

A house is designed as a sanctuary from the world.

Yet a good home balances the need to welcome a multitude of guests.

Take, for example, the threebedroom/three-and-a-half-bath adobe home at 49 Alta Vista.

Located in the Vista Grande subdivision of Des Montes, this property is a great value: 4,835 square feet of high-quality adobe construction on 4.16 acres listed for $895,000.

Only 7 miles north of the historic Taos Plaza, this house enjoys the benefits of blissful seclusion, yet it is a quick car ride away to cafés, galleries and shopping. And for outdoor enthusiasts, the year-round activities at Taos Ski Valley are just 12 miles away.

Ken Wolosin and Tom Rogers designed the home in traditional adobe style in 2005. Its walls are approximately 16 inches thick.

“The beauty of a Ken Wolosin house is how well they age,” says Evan Blish, of Piñon Investments of Taos. “This house is nine years old but looks virtually brand new.”

The couple who originally owned the house had unique careers. He worked for the Central Intelligence Agency. She was a retired career diplomat who had been stationed throughout the world. At one time, she was the U.S. Consulate in Guadalajara, Mexico.

“This home was not built on spec,” Blish says. “It was built as a dream home for a retired couple to spend the rest of their lives. They built this home for entertaining.”

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

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T

herefore, one can’t help but note the flowing design of the home and its grounds. Stepping through the front gate, you enter a hacienda-style courtyard. With portals on three sides, it makes for a marvelous outdoor entertaining area.

The grand, east-facing kitchen is the heart of the home. The kitchen measures 16 feet long and is designed in a double-wall layout. A sizable cooking island, with a six-burner stove range and lighted stove hood, stands at the center.

Four brightly colored stools invite guests and family members to sit at the island for easy conversation. A power outlet strip lends additional flexibility in meal preparation or for checking email on the laptop.

The kitchen has a subdued contemporary feel. The countertops are sandstone; the stainless steel appliances are Viking; and the earth-toned ceramic floor tiles balance the reddish-blonde of the alder cabinetry. Ed Paul made the cabinets.

The double sink features the Kohler faucet for convenience and a touch of modernism. Ceramic tiles frame the kitchen window, giving a dramatic pop to the contemporary style kitchen. Skylights overhead draw in additional light.

With 15 cabinets and 10 deep drawers of all shapes and sizes, this kitchen has plenty of room for storage. Additionally, the large walk-in pantry has 40 shelves, and its space is suitable to fit a small wine refrigerator.

“The previous owner had an amazing collection of dishes,” Blish says of the large pantry. “She was into culinary arts, and when you’re a traveling diplomat like that, she was also a collector.”

Painted in warmer colors and lit by a chand

An adjoining breakfast room is perfect for casual meals and family gatherings. The sweeping eastern views consist of El Salto, Pueblo Peak (a.k.a. Taos Mountain), and Taos Pueblo lands.

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chandelier, guests sit down for exquisite dining in a large, yet intimate atmosphere.

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I

n the other direction, the kitchen’s open-floor plan flows into the formal dining room. Painted in warmer colors and lit by a chandelier, guests sit down for exquisite dining in a large, yet intimate atmosphere.

After dinner, guests are easily drawn into the great room and are treated to vibrant high desert sunsets. A large kiva fireplace anchors the great room.

To refresh oneself, the home offers three-and-a-half baths.

The master bathroom is en suite to the master bedroom.

Painted in a Mediterranean blue, the master bath features two sinks, a glass shower, and a Jacuzzi tub with an 18-inch depth.

Recessed ceiling lighting and heated floor tiles add to the comfort.

“It is peaceful, serene, and relaxing,” says Blush.

Above each sink, inlaid ceramic tiles frame the mirror. Natural light comes in from the windows, the skylights, and the adjoining bedroom.

A custom-built, walk-in closet is open, yet private for dressing.

There are plenty of shelves, hanging rods, and storage cubbies.

All the components are well aligned, giving the dressing area a harmonious feel.

In both full guest bathrooms, the sink cabinets are built into the wall. The house is in a muted earth tone, but the tiles add some pop.

Additional features of the home include an attached two-car garage, freestanding exterior hot tub, and modern wiring throughout the home for Internet and satellite TV. “The next owner will love this house because it can be a great family retreat. And because it is built so well, it will provide the new owners with the security of knowing this will be an enduring legacy for many years to come,” says Blish.

For more information about this property, contact Evan Blish of Piñon Investments of Taos at (575) 776-8106 or pinoneb@newmex.com

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Page Sullivan REAL GROUP ESTATEGROUP GROUP REAL ESTATE Page Sullivan Sullivan Page

TaosHomePage.com

page@TaosHomePage.com T RAC ONT C R E UND

Peaceful, Easy Feeling

Ranchos Home

3BR/3BA/2496sf home with attached 2CG on one tranquil, park-like acre. Excellent passive solar 4BR/3BA/3240sf two-storylandscaping, frame and adobe custom home with attached 2CG on gain, beautiful woodwork, 0.25 acresforwithentertaining. additional flex space suitable for carport or workshop/ ideal

studio. Completely remodeled in 2014, town sewer, natural gas.

MLS94938 90864 $568,000 MLS $239,000

Wonderful Light-filled Home

Pumice Home in Llano Quemado

3BR/2BA/2498sf home with contemporary style, 925sf of deck & patio, & a 797sf workshop, all on 2BR/1BA/1325sf home with oversized 1CG and two acres. Landscaping includes drippicture-perfect irrigation, landscaping on lawn, 0.75 acres south of Ranchos. Immaculate lush grassy 100+just trees.

2BR/2BA/1138sf home on 0.63 acres has lots of lovely details, including large living/dining area & 4BR/3BA/2650sf withSound-insulated, oversized 1CG & carport 3 acres. nice kitchen. privateon setting, Large master suitewater with rights. luxurious bath, separate guest drip irrigation,

Llano Mesa

neutral palette, central air conditioning, roomy redwood deck.

MLS94187 92988 $448,000 MLS $209,999

wing with 2BR. Patios & gardens with views of mountains.

MLS94950 92928 $225,000 MLS $448,000

Land and Acreage

ACT NTR O C ER UND

Sanctuary Minutes Lamafrom Town

Upscale In-town Condo

Town of Taos Home

This 2BR/2.5BA/1850sf two-story condo feels like a single-family home. High-end finishes, granite 3BR/2BA/1587sf home with oversized 0.11 counters, stained concrete floors, 1CG openonfloor acres appeal.

Facilitated plan. retains Walk tovintage shopping, dining, Plaza! for future

solar conversion.

MLS 94286 82293 MLS

Blueberry Hill

$368,000 $259,000

Spacious Contemporary Home

Adobe Home on Hondo Mesa

3BR/2.5BA/2695sf with heated attached 2CG on 0.78 acres. Perfect blend of contemporary style & 3BR/2BA/1601sf authentic adobefeatures. on 1.43 acresSpectacular with magnificentviews views. traditional Southwest Ceramic tile floors,&viga/T&G ceilings, covered from indoors out, covered portal.back porch, terrific

open floor plan. Cozy wood stove, nice stainless steel appliances.

MLS 95967 91401 $548,000 MLS $299,999

NG ISTI L W NE

Valle Escondido Lakeview

Costilla Home

3BR/2BA/1700sf getaway with detached 1CG on 0.34 acres in our own beautiful hidden valley is 3BR/1BA/1563sf frame home on 1.794 acres, built in 1990. move-in ready! High ceilings, custom cabinets, On septic system & community Covered porch, large deck.

Exceptional lot & water. setting.

Thermopane windows, pretty land, great big views!

MLS $75,000 MLS 94896 92306 $242,000

Three for One!

Deer Mesa in Valdez

Three independent homes: 3BR/2BA/1654sf main house, 2BR/2BA/880sf two-story guesthouse, & 2BR/2BA/1778sf two-story rastra-block home on 2.1 2BR/1BA/1208sf studio on 0.78 acres. Each home is acres.

This isfor turnkey. balcony off master appropriate rental.Wrapped Landscaping, privacy, views!

BR, kiva fireplaces, lovely fixtures & finishes.

MLS $368,000 MLS 96267 92315 $599,000

.Looking . . there’s for a way!the Thisperfect 12.09-acre land ofonlandwhich to build parcel has old-growth trees, the views perfect home? Look huge & a solar-powered well no great water further! with production and2.2 two beautiful, forested holding tanks. The well tapsacres into an less than minutes to aquifer that is 10 not part of the Lama Taos Plaza.

Spectacular Community Water System.

Many trails building for hiking & sites. riding. Lovely secluded location borders USFS. MLS 89983 $280,000 MLS 95540 $468,000

Taos Ski Valley Land Des Montes

Lot 18 in the Kachina

Three 1.33-acre tracts of landacres offered Subdivision is 0.78 as 3.99-acre mountain parcel. Water of a single pure splendor.

Gently rolling rights, 300’ well, and views views land,Didmultiple views! we mentionbuilding the views? spots.

Adjoins 19 So pretty! This beautiful,Lot level land one or is(MLS horse93057). property, soBuy construct the both & construct the home and the barn of your dreams. retreat of your dreams.

Plenty of room for hay, round pens, and arenas.

Giddy-up!$188,000 MLS 89709 MLS 96086 $478,000

Kachina Subdivision West Gorge Bridge Lot 19 in Taos Ski Valley's

Kachina Subdivision, 0.8 Well-share, amazingly beautiful acres paved with road, favorable views, electric CC&Rs and the bluest at lot--and it’s still an easy, skies drive in into NewTaos!Mexico. breezy This 10Adjoins Lot 18 (MLS acre parcel of land is a rarity.

89709).

Put them Iftogether you like wide-open spaces, & build your big skies, sunrises, sunsets, and own mini-resort. starry nights, look no further.

MLS 93057

$175,000

MLS 95884 $100,000 Well, Well, Well!

This 10-acre parcel of San Cristobal land on the West Rim

Bent St. Garden District

Architectural Appeal & Big Views

This lovely, pristine 1575sf adobe on 0.11 acres is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Affordable 3BR/2BA/1232sf manufactured home on 0.36 acres in Currently a gallery, with past lives as a home, a arestaurant, sweet location.office Oversized 2CG adds value. Ramp for wheelchair space, & retail store.

3BR/2BA/2212sf home with attached 2CG on 1.21 acres in Vista Linda. Gourmet kitchen, open floor 2BR/2BA/1113sf condo with kiva fireplace, split floor plan, & plan, luxurious baths, pristine condition. Check stellar location.

Southwest appeal, contemporary convenience, out the golf course from your back portal!

Arroyo Hondo

access. Large covered front porch, nearby access to highway.

MLS $98,000 MLS 95993 90815 $875,000

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

Town of Taos Condo

easy walk to historic Taos Plaza & all in-town amenities.

MLS $229,000 MLS95105 92460 $449,900

Looking buy in theamazing stunning Road tooffers San Cristobal MLS 95000 views, withValley? a functioning offers 4.5 aacres $135,000. well on wellfor share and electricity Need more room?at Just the add lot—rare assets west of acreage! MLS 95001 offers this the Gorge! land plus an additional 1.43 acres for a total of 5.93 acres MLS 89997Beautiful $80,000 at $195,000. location, easy & scenic drive to Taos.

MLS 95000 $135,000

575-758-7890

20 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

Page Sullivan

T RAC ONT C R E UND

Elegant Arroyo Seco Home

Taos Canyon Pueblo-style Home

Taos Ski Valley

Outstanding 3BR/2BA/2507sf adobe home with detached 2CG on one pretty acre with views. Luxurious baths with vessel sinks (master has sunken spa tub), upscale kitchen, much more!

MLS 94148 $595,000

1BR/1.5BA/999sf home with attached 1C carport on 0.42 acres midway between Taos and Angel Fire. This comfy getaway has a sweet covered porch. Breathe in the mountain air!

MLS 92448 $129,900

Has the mountain been calling you? Answer it! This 1BR/1BA/800sf cabin is nestled on 0.36 acres on the outskirts of the resort. Built in 1980, holding tank.

MLS 93075

$215,000

For more hot deals & inside scoops, visit TaosRealEstate.com

Gorgeous Adobe in Upper Colonias

Energy-efficient Arroyo Hondo Home

Beautiful design with soft, curving lines, quality construction, & fantastic attention to detail are the hallmarks of this 3BR/3.5BA/3361sf home on one acre. Fireplaces in library & great room, which is on an open floor plan with the kitchen, breakfast nook, & dining room. Master wing includes office, master bath with spa tub & separate steam shower with pebble floor, & large walk-in closet that opens directly into laundry room, which has high-end front-load waqsher & dryer & agitator sink. Custom kitchen cabinetry matches wood-paneled upscale appliances. Oversized heated attached 2CG has a workshop & additional enclosed storage. Lush, inviting landscaping & breathtaking views.

Set amid trees, meandering gravel paths, and both veggie and flower gardens, this very green energy-efficient 2001sf house on 0.668 acres has two bedrooms, two baths, two sunrooms (including one with hot tub), a cozy office space, and a fantastic great room encompassing the perfect country kitchen, living room, and dedicated dining area. Beautiful grounds, water rights, detached 2C carport, roomy shed. Adobe, post-&-beam, and strawbale construction, built 1998, remodeled 2009.

MLS 95611

$739,000

Magnificent Town of Taos Property 8BR/8.5BA/5717sf adobe and frame property on 0.5 acres with town utilities. Spacious & elegant, with hardwood and cork floors, fireplaces, and an amazing addition with two en suite bedrooms. The addition connects to three more guestrooms, all en suite, via a wide, window-filled hallway that looks out on mature landscaping in a private back garden. Once home to renowned author Frank Waters, formerly a B&B, now owned by Dominican Sisters of St. Catherine of Siena, who have performed a heavenly remodel.

MLS 94303

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

$1,650,000

MLS 96100

$319,000

Turnkey Adobe Home in El Salto ING LIST W E N

The views from this home on 1.5 acres in El Salto are priceless. With four bedrooms and three baths, this home measures a generous 3759 square feet. Lots of windows, fantastic great room with sunken living room, gourmet kitchen with pretty palladian window that frames El Salto, and a dining area that’s both elegant and comfortable. The living room opens on to a spacious deck with views for miles. The master bedroom and master bath offer the same gorgeous views. Saltillo floors, beautiful viga/T&G ceilings, welcoming entryway, all in a setting that’s private yet accessible.

MLS 96179

21 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

$1,100,000

REAL ESTATE GROUP Page Sullivan

TAOS INSIDER

From homes to hiking, from restaurants to rafting, from galleries to galas, and from skiing to scuttlebutt, Page knows Taos.

Visit TaosRealEstate.com to see Page’s Picks!

TM

Dining

Activities

Ski Aquí

Events

Real Estate

Priced to Sell!

Blueberry Hill Home

Land in Desirable Des Montes

This 4BR/3BA/2650sf home on 3 acres offers roomy common areas on an open floor plan, a large master suite, and a separate wing with 2 guestrooms. Use the fourth bedroom as a guestroom or office. Patios with views of the mountains from the living room & master bedroom. Oversized 1CG & carport, charming breakfast nook, loads of storage & closet space. Well built & lovingly maintained.

MLS 94950 $428,000

Spectacular 1.16 acres with level building sites has adjacent land available! Visit TaosHomePage.com to see MLS 96225 and MLS 96226 (also 1.16 acres each) and MLS 96222, MLS 96223, and MLS 96224 (1.24 acres each). Each parcel is priced at a reasonable $130,000. Fragrant sage, panoramic views, & open skies await!

MLS 94907 $130,000

Adobe Home on Hondo Mesa

Lower Colonias Land

This 3BR/2BA/1601sf home has a great room that encompasses the living room, dining area, & kitchen, with viga ceilings & a cheerful woodstove. The kitchen features nice stainless-steel appliances. Throughout the home are solid-core doors & low-maintenance, attractive ceramic tile floors. Covered back porch, fenced backyard.

MLS 95967 $299,999

Two-acre homesite in the Este Mirada Subdivision offers a choice of building sites.

Each lot comes with a well share. Only 5.5 miles from town, Este Mirada has sensible restrictions that safeguard the tranquility of the environment. Xeriscaping & water conservation are encouraged, & horses are allowed. Minimum two-acre lots.

MLS 96141 $50,000

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

22 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

JAN RADER, CRS, GRI Cell 575-770-2012 Office 575-737-7707 jan@janrader.com JanRader.com

LOTA REALTY, INC.

ADOBE MASTERPIECE

TREE HOUSE FEELING

LOVELY IN-TOWN CONDO

NEW

VALDEZ NORTH (95560) Great getaway in the tall trees!

2 BR/1BA home w/open living area, 2 sunrooms, master opens to deck & hot tub. 2.5 acres, privacy, big views. Offered furnished & equipped. $249,000 CALL JAN! MLS 95560

COUNTRY CLUB – (93397) Spacious & beautiful 3/BR/3BA home at Taos Country Club in immaculate condition. 3 ac. lot w/extensive landscaping, portals & courtyards maximize views. Open floorplan, perfect for entertaining, 2 master suites. $745,000 CALL JAN! MLS 93397

SPACIOUS FAMILY HOME

MARIPOSA RANCH

D UCE RED

TAOS CANYON-(96088) Large 4BR/2BA home on the sunny side of Taos Canyon. 1.4 acre hillside lot offers privacy, views & solar gain. Workshop & detached garage.

Priced to sell! $178,000 CALL JAN MLS 96088

DES MONTES – (94392) Exceptional 14.43 acre lot at Mariposa Ranch offers panoramic views. Utilities & well in place. Ready for your dream home! $229,000 CALL JAN! MLS 94392

TAOS OF TAOS-(96198) Walk to the Plaza from this beautiful 2 BR/1.5BA condo. Excellent condition; fully furnished & equipped. Location is convenient, lovely.

Private covered portal & shady enclosed yard, plenty of parking. Ideal for full time or vacation living! $209,000 CALL JAN MLS 96198

Corner of Paseo del Pueblo Norte & Civic Plaza Drive

View All Taos MLS Listings at www.janrader.com

Because we know you want to live here.

LOTA REALTY, INC.

JUDY BUCK 575-758-8673 judy@cblotataos.com

LAND, LAND, LAND

Find all the Taos MLS real estate listings with one click www.taosnews.com Powered by Coldwell Banker Lota Realty, Inc.

Corner of Paseo del Pueblo Norte & Civic Plaza Drive 800-829-8673 Photo by Seth Bullington

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

TOWN OF TAOS – (92174) Walk to the Plaza from this super elegant condo in the historic district with lovely private walled outdoor areas. A spacious 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath living space, plus den or third bedroom. Includes a garage and a carport all in a landscaped private compound within an infill lot. Fine finishes, granite countertops, spacious kitchen and living room with kiva fireplace and another one in the master suite. One of the finest in Taos and priced under appraisal. $449,000 CALL JUDY BUCK

UPPER COLONIAS - (93958) The views in every direction are magnificent from this easy to build on 1.12 acre lot in a lovely emerging residential area located perfectly between town and Taos Ski Valley. Utilities at the lot and intelligent restrictions to protect your investment. $120,000

VALDEZ FOOTHILLS - (95811) High above it all, this 2.0 acre lot just north of Deer Mesa Subdivision is perfect for a private retreat in the trees. Utilities at the lot and ready to build your dream home! $125,000

BLUEBERRY HILL - (91257) Ready for development, this view filled 2.0 acre lot can be subdivided once or sold in two parts. Close to town with mountain views everywhere in a great residential area. 2 acres for $115,000 or 1 acre for $55,000

View All Taos MLS Listings at www.cblotataos.com

23 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

Bathroom mirrors reflect your style

M

BY TERESA DOVALPAGE | PHOTOS BY KATHARINE EGLI

irrors come in all shapes and sizes. They can be showy, decorative or simply practical. And they tend to be the focal point of the bathroom — a mirror is, after all, the first place people often look at when they come into the room.

Marion Moore, owner of Taos Tin Works, has been making mirrors and lighting fixtures since 1991.

“Many of my mirrors have been sold to people who come here to shop and buy stuff off the wall,” she said, “but many more have been created especially for my clients and customized to their needs.

Every space is different and the choice of mirrors depends on the characteristics of the room.”

One general advice she gives is to get as much exposure as possible out of the mirror.

“That’s why I make box-shaped balances with open bottoms and open tops,” she said. “People shave, comb their hair and apply makeup in front of the mirror. This is the place where they want to see the unfortunate truth — or the fortunate truth.”

Moore makes tin and copper light fixtures, but she prefers to use tin in most bathrooms.

“Tin reflects a nice white light, while copper creates an orangey shade,” she said. “You don’t want to see yourself ‘orangey’ when you are putting on mascara or lipstick! A white crisp light is the best option here.”

An exception is the powder room, which tends to be far more decorative than regular, everyday bathrooms.

“When you look at your reflection, you want to see your whole self,” she said. “Mirrors should offer maximum reflective area.”

“Many clients like to display very elaborate items there,” said Moore.

“They request copper lighting fixtures because they want to showcase their pretty ornaments under the copper’s richness and glow.”

Lighting and mirrors

The type of light bulbs used is a factor to consider as well.

When placing lamps or sconces, Moore recommends letting the light fall right down onto the mirror to fully illuminate it.

“I like the compact fluorescent bulbs called ‘bright white,’” she said.

“Now there is also a great variety of LED bulbs to choose from.”

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

24 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

Perfect for kitchens

A few words about frames As important as the mirror is its frame, which can jazz up the bathroom and give it a unique look.

“All of my mirrors, except for the very tiny ones, have a handmade wooden frame,” said Moore.

“They are beautiful, but they are also sturdy. I always make sure that all my large mirrors, that are very high quality, are backed with wood.”

She cautions against using way too wide frames, unless the mirror is particularly big.

“A 3-or-4-inch width is usually good, particularly if you don’t have lots of space,” she said. “This is very important when there is somebody tall standing in front of the mirror. You won’t want to take the top of the head off !”

A well-placed bathroom mirror complements the rest of the space. Whether it is located over the sink or the vanity, or covers a whole wall, it should balance the prominent shape in the bathroom — be it circles, ovals or squares.

“Mirrors need to be in harmony with the rest of the bathroom, the sink and the counters,” said Moore.

Placing a mirror opposite another one is a great help for hairstyling and brings in more light in the room.

“If possible, it is nice to have two mirrors, one in front of you and one behind, so you can see the back of your head,” said Moore.

In any case, design elements should tie in with each other.

“Quite often people use tiles or stone in the bathrooms,” she said. “They work beautifully with tin and copper. The rule is not to have things that compete against each other but items that fit in nicely together.”

Taos Tin Works is located at 1204-D Paseo del Pueblo Norte, El Prado. Phone: (575) 758-9724 Website: www.taostinworks.com

Marion Moore custom-makes tin and copper cabinet panels for kitchens. She also makes lights that go over tables and sinks, which also complement the cabinet panels and other decorative kitchen work.

“I once covered a wine refrigerator in tin panels and ornamented them with grapevines and grapes,” she said. “It was incredible!”

Jeffrey Cohen and Nancy Seiser, the owners of the wine refrigerator, said it made a big difference in the way the piece looks.

“It is both beautiful and functional,” Seiser said.

Moore made four tin panels for them, to cover the split doors that open to the pantry. The panels, Seiser said, fit in wonderfully with all the other tin design elements in the kitchen.

“Tin adds a nice warm feel to the space,” she said. “It is also easy to clean up and maintain, perfect for kitchens.

QUALITY CONSTRUCTION FOR OVER 30 YEARS

Taos Sunrise Builders, LLC Looking to Change Your Lifestyle

• Kitchen & Bath Remodels • Landscaping & Flagstone • Window & Doors • Tile & Painting • Design • Additions • Reconstruction of Homes • New Home Construction Free Consultation Available 575-758-7092

NEW Taos Sunrise Plumbing, LLC WWW.TAOSSUNRISEBUILDERS.COM TAOSSUNRISEBUILDERS@GMAIL.COM

LICENSED & BONDED LIC #383570 LIC #383571

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

26 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

Peter A. Lora

225 Kit Carson Road

575-758-3275 peter@theloraco.com

www.realestatetaos.com

VERY COMFORTABLE & WELL BUILT - 3-BR + office/2-BA adobe home. Pleasing floor plan, excellent condition. In-floor radiant heat, massive vigas, tile floors, wood stove. Great outdoor living spaces w/ covered patio, lawn, gardens, hot tub. Oversized heated garage. Fine views on 2.76 acres in nice neighborhood, just 15 minutes north of Taos. $399,000 MLS #95912 http://www.visualtour.com/show.asp?T=3428972

STUNNING CONDO – Luxurious 1600-sq. ft. 2BR/2.5BA in Taos’ best condo development. Vibrant colors, highend finishes, private walled patio, upstairs deck w/ hot tub. Beautifully landscaped grounds. Next door to El Monte Sagrado Hotel, and just 0.6 mile from Taos center. Fine furnishings included. $399,000 MLS #94654 www.visualtour.com/show.asp?T=3231959

ELEGANT ADOBE - 3BR/3BA with 2,506 sq.ft. flexible living space + 750 sf attached heated studio. Beautiful mud plaster interior walls, granite, vigas in every room, luxurious master bath. 2 walled courtyards w/ trees, gardens. Wonderful views & privacy on 1.7 acres in excellent neighborhood less than 5 mi from Town. $489,000 MLS #95554 www.visualtour.com/show.asp?T=3383572

GREAT VACATION & RENTAL HOME! 3BR/2BA adobe in premier Arroyo Seco location, 15 min to Taos Ski Valley, 20 min to Town. Classic SW style w/ vigas, kiva FP, Saltillo tile. In-floor radiant heat. Open floor plan. Upstairs master suite with deck.

Two patios, hot tub and terrific views. Fully furnished. Attached garage. HOA tennis court & indoor pool.. $495,000 MLS #96057 http://www.visualtour.com/show.asp?T=3454390

STEP BACK IN TIME - in this authentic classic adobe home. Originally built ca. 1860, renovated 2005.

3BR/2BA, 1800 sq. ft. of authentic Taos charm. Large living room has sunny exposure. Enclosed front courtyard overlooks the beautiful valley. Slow down and enjoy the old ways! $185,000 MLS #94036. www.visualtour.com/show.asp?T=3127976

LOCATION, LOCATION! - Walk to everything in heart of Taos. 1,274 sq. ft. + separate office/studio w/ ½ bath.

2-BR/2-BA upstairs with deck. Main living area downstairs has ample kitchen, living-dining area, 1.75 BA + deck.

Nicely remodeled, light and bright. Perfect in-town living or rental potential! $229,000 MLS #95269 www.visualtour.com/show.asp?T=3358846

FABULOUS VIEWS - Beautiful 2,800-sq. ft. 3-BR/3-BA on a ridge overlooking scenic valley. Gorgeous master suite w/ luxurious bath, private deck. Four fireplaces, two patios, hot tub. Excellent vacation rental property. Lockoff bedrooms for flexible rental potential. $529,000 MLS #93550 www.visualtour.com/show.asp?T=3076231

VERSATILE COMPOUND - 3BR/2BA main home 1,870 sq, ft. rastrablock construction, in-floor heat, FP, brick floors, 3 covered porches.

1BR/1BA guest house 1,012 sq. ft. pumice-crete construction w/ fireplace, nice kitchen, tile floors, washer/dryer, lots of solar gain and great views. Studio is 580-sq. ft. w/ kitchen, 3/4 bath, closet, W/D hook-ups. 2-car garage. Quality neighborhood. $645,000 MLS #95588 www.visualtour.com/show.asp?T=3388619

WIDE OPEN SPACE - Spacious 2-bdrm/2bath home offers a pleasing floor plan, magnificent views, nice outdoor living areas w/ fruit trees, gardens, hot tub. large attached/heated garage, plenty of storage. Classic Pueblo style, mud plaster interior walls, “kiva” fireplace, Pella windows, steam shower, and more. On 5 acres in a quality area just 12 miles north of Town. $399,000 MLS #95215 www.visualtour.com/show.asp?T=3337867

MARIPOSA RANCH - Spectacular 11.45-acre home site in one of Taos’ best subdivisions. Magnificent panoramic views of mountains and sunsets. Underground utilities, thoughtful restrictions. Well-share in place. Preferred north side location, near charming Arroyo Seco, just 15 minutes from Town, and 20 minutes from Taos Ski Valley. $249,000 MLS # 88677 www.visualtour.com/show.asp?T=2182656

RARE LAND IN TOWN - Beautiful 2 acres in prime residential area only 0.3 mile from Taos Plaza. Gorgeous valley land with fine views, upscale homes around it.

Perfect for larger luxury home sites, or zoning would support 8 homes on smaller lots. Seller financing is possible. $500,000 MLS #95273 www.visualtour.com/show.asp?T=3345910

BUSINESS FOR SALE - Outstanding income opportunity!

Established storage business with high occupancy rate.

Currently 78 units of different sizes. 1.8-acre lot will allow for additional storage units. Buildings are only a few years old, in excellent condition, fully enclosed in chain link fence with automatic gate. $745,000 MLS #94847

See AllEnchanted Taos Homes MLSVol.Listings At www.realestatetaos.com CI • 27 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

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If you have questions, give us a call at (575) 758-4838 Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

28 • 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

Web: www.RealTaos.com 575 . 779 . 0285 Cell

Los Altos Luxury

441 Acre Ranch

Bordering the Rio Grande

Entertaining is easy here. A chefs kitchen, butler pantry and formal dining room make this adobe home perfect for entertaining. 3BD/2BA/2CG, a garden room, extra large living room , patios and gorgeous landscaping. Located between the Ski Valley & Town.

Clubhouse Pool and Tennis courts in HOA MLS# 95338 $795,000

High Mountain Ranch- Diverse wildlife gather here and you can, too. 441 acres of rolling sage with pinon & juniper, cottonwoods, 40 foot cliffs, seasonal streams and ponds. The main house is solar & built commercial.

More details online.

Ranch, retreat or recreational headquarters?

MLS# 94996 $990,000

Perched on a Knoll and just above the hike down to Manby Hot Springs and the Rio Grande sits this custombuilt, poured-earth contemporary home on over 14 acres of pinon and juniper. A sweet retreat with thoughtful attention to details.

Stunning location and super-efficient home.

MLS# 96019 $517,000

Walk to The Plaza

Arroyo Seco Hacienda

4 Acres Hondo Seco Rd.

Gorgeous 1.5 acres. Rare and lush land in a parklike setting that is walking distance to Taos Plaza.

Lots of trees & shrubs, utilities at lot, natural gas, irrigation, views and live water from May-Oct. Come see what a beautiful setting this is.

MLS# 96059 $240,000

On the Rim Road with the Acequia Madre running through it. This passive solar, spacious home, offers 3BD/2.5BA/2CG, solar rooms, an office, workshop, guest apt., & is horse friendly.

One of a kind, lush property on 1.72 acres.

MLS# 95328 $599,000

Des Montes beauty sitting right on the Hondo-Seco Road with utilities on road. 3.99 acres bordering Pueblo land with easy access to both the Town and Taos Ski Valley.

Pinon, Juniper and fantastic views!

MLS# 95161 $199,000

Artistic Home in the Trees

El Salto Land

Details, details, details- that’s what you’ll find in this custom home and guest quarters. With over 6,000 square feet, you’ll still feel cozy. Stunning environment surrounded by evergreens, eagles & those famous Taos sunsets & rainbows..

Majestic Views, Privacy & Serenity!

MLS# 93959 Reduced to $899,000

Views Galore from this pastoral parcel in desirable El Salto. One beautiful irrigated acre with panoramic views. Great location between the Town of Taos and The Taos Ski Valley.

Beautiful location in a lush setting!

MLS# 95734 $149,000

Rustic Cabin in Seco

Cute Fixer-Upper– Functional, but needs some work. The cabin and a barn sit on 1.32 acres of lush irrigated valley land just off the Hondo Seco Road. Well, septic, irrigation and natural gas.

Call me to see this one!

MLS# 96136 $187,500

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

30 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

HIGH MOUNTAIN RANCH

CASA ARTESIA RTY ROPE P E M INCO

441+ acres of rolling sage bisected by the Aguaje de Petaca Commercial grade 5500 sq ft main house • 1360 sq ft guesthouse • 3600 sq ft workshop Active solar / passive solar pumice block construction • Water membership 30 gal per min Well • 2 hand dug wells • Reservoir and seasonal stream 40 ft volcanic lava cliffs • In Tres Piedras (30 miles west of Taos)

Originally built in the 1880s and extensively remodeled in 2008, this historic adobe located next to the Harwood Art Museum has been home to several creative luminaries.

Once a successful vacation rental, called Casa Artesia, the property has a flexible floorplan that would accommodate division into three apartments, configuration as a house with guesthouse, or use as a luxuriant dwelling.

MLS# 94992 $990,000

MLS 96131 $849,000

DIXON SMALL FARM

PIED À TERRE

ED WER O L E PRIC

ED WER O L E PRIC

Back to the Land - Rare, rich and remarkable Dixon farm on 1.67 irrigated acres.

Cabin with 2 lofts, straw bale studio/workshop, chicken coop & greenhouse.

Furnished turn-key 1 bed 1 bath condo. • Pied à terre or rental Walking distance to Plaza, etc. • Saltillo tile, berber carpet, tile counters Off-street parking and on-site laundry • Corner unit on 2nd floor

MLS #95971 $233,000 $200,000

MLS# 95766 $81,000 $74,500

CARSON RANCH

HORSE PROPERTY

643 acres surrounded by Carson National Forest • 160 ac. fenced pasture 1,039 sq ft, restored chinked-log, settler’s cabin • Stephen Kilborn designed fountain Carmen Velarde fireplace • Expansive porch & gazebo • 920 ft well & solar pump Two 1700 gal cisterns • 3.12 & 1.56 kw PV arrays • Hunting permits

Spacious light-filled home on lush irrigated 1.2 acres 2628 sq feet — 3 bed 2 bath • Library/den with built-in shelving Vigas and T&G ceilings • Skylights • Dead-end lane • Secluded & close to town Tile floors – in floor radiant heat • 2 fire-places + wood stove Willows and Cottonwoods • Chicken coop and horse corral

MLS 95357 $825,000

MLS# 95702 Price $399,000

Sanjay Poovadan Associate Broker

575-779-1021

sanjaytaosrealestate.com sanjay@taosrealestatepartners.com Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

find home...

575-758-3275 225 Kit Carson Road

31 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

Joel and Marny Schantz Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Taos Real Estate

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

32 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

BY ANDY DENNISON | PHOTOS BY KATHARINE EGLI

Joel and Marny Schantz

A match made in Taos real estate

I

t took a bit of time for Joel and Marny Schantz to find real estate as a calling but, once they did, it was a match made in Taos.

For more than 25 years, the Schantzes have ridden the ups, downs and all-arounds of the Taos home market – and they are still around to talk about it.

“In this business, you succeed by being here, every day,” said Marny Schantz, the manager and owner. “If you treat real estate as a full-time career, work hard and take the job seriously, you will make money.”

They’ve had five names for their company, and they’ve worked under three different national franchises. Several dozen agents have worked in their office, their staff has contracted and expanded several times and, in the toughest times around 2008, they put some of their own money into the business to keep the doors open.

“We never gave up, and we always knew we had to advertise,” Marny said. “We had to make sure that people knew we were still here, and that buying and selling real estate was still going on.”

Their commitment to keeping their company name visible and viable has been challenged over the years – none more than the recent change to Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Taos Real Estate, after the purchase of Prudential Real Estate by the parent company owned by Omaha investor Warren Buffett.

“We were in limbo for more than a year as the sale went through,” Marny said. “But now, the extent of our technology is something we’ve never had before, and we’re under a global brand.”

Back in the beginning, however, the prospects weren’t quite so rosy.

Joel showed up in Taos in the early ’70s to be a ski bum. He became a surveyor and, among many jobs, he surveyed the lift line for the new Chair 4 at Taos Ski Valley in 1971. After more than a decade of that – and Marny as a full-time mother and odd-jobber — Joel stuck his toe in the real estate waters with the independent Rio Grande Survey & Realty.

“There seem to be more advantages in selling the land rather than measuring it,” Joel said.

Soon national franchisee Realty World came calling, and Realty World – The Schantz Co. opened in 1987.

One might say they couldn’t have chosen to enter real estate market at a worse time. Interests rates were at all-time highs, 18-20 percent, and the Taos market was flooded with inventory and devoid of buyers. Fortunately for the Schantzes, Realty World offered extensive training for their franchisees and they both took full advantage of it to get their feet under them.

“We started in a bad market, but we didn’t know any better, which was a good thing,” said Marny. “But the Realty World training made us what we are today. I still use those training programs we got from them to train new agents today.”

Land sales dominated their business early on, especially with Joel’s surveying background, and much was sold as four-lot tracts that were popular – and permissible – in Taos County at that time.

Joel points to Tune Drive, Vista Linda and part of Weimer Estates as examples of how Taos’ housing grew in the 1980 and 1990s without major subdivisions.

More than half of their business is repeat customers and, even with apps and social media and texting, their go-to strategy is still personal contact.

Early on, the company moved to 314-A Paseo del Pueblo Norte – the longtime home of Irv Green’s Fiesta Bakery – where, despite three more name changes, it remains today.

“It’s been so easy to tell people that we’re between Michael’s Kitchen and the post office,” said Joel. “Location, location, location.”

Despite the technological advances in how to operate a real estate agency over the years, Joel and Marny say they still run their business with a decidedly old-school feel. More than half of their business is repeat customers and, even with apps and social media and texting, their go-to strategy is still personal contact.

“People may get to us on the Internet and view properties on the app we have,” Joel said. “But give me a phone and we can talk, and then come to the office. That’s the way it’s worked for us.”

They believe their longevity is also due to an ability to adapt to the market. The Taos real estate market has grown and shrunk and morphed over three decades, and the Schantzes committed early on to taking what was given to them and making it work.

“By 2011, it was a free fall, and we really thought we might have to close down,” Marny said. “But we looked at each other and asked, ‘What else would we do?’. So we kept listing and selling, and things worked out.”

The recent sale and infrastructure investments at Taos Ski Valley give the Schantzes reason for optimism. And they firmly believe that their new affiliation with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices will pay off handsomely. They see a commitment in real estate from Buffett, who has bought real estate companies for the long term – which is his investing philosophy.

As for their own retirement, Joel and Marny say they planned to retire five years ago. But for now …

“We are rebuilding the company, re-branding with Berkshire Hathaway, and then we’ll see,” said Joel. “It’s been difficult these past years, but I’m now much more positive. Who knows?”

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Taos Real Estate is located at 314A Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos. Phone: (575) 758-1924 Website: www.BHHSTaosRealEstate.com

Rachel Singer

Associate Broker 575-613-3027 rachels@taosnet.com 314A Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571 BHHSTaosRealEstate.com • 575 758 1924 • 800 530 8899

PRICE REDUCED

MUST SEE VIEWS!

3BD/1BA, near town, hospital, and public transportation. Well maintained, with open floor plan, covered patio, and private yard with fruit trees. Lovely mountain views. $184,900 MLS 95005

BUILD HERE

6.78 acre lot overlooking the Arroyo Hondo valley. Huge views of Taos Mtn., a short hike to the Rio Grande Gorge.

Small hogan with propane heat/lights, plus utility shed. $109,000 MLS 96255

READY TO BUILD

GREAT building site for your dream home just a short hike from the Rio Pueblo. 360 degree views of mtns & sunsets. Well share in place, good neighborhood & covenants.

Each lot $70,000. MLS 95095 / 95096

INCREDIBLE pinon/juniper 5ac building site with well. Beautiful views of mountains & Rio Grande Gorge. Near Latir Peak and Carson National Forest.

Utilities nearby $65,000 MLS 93430

©2014 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates,LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

Rick Reaves

Associate Broker 575-770-4502 ricklreaves@gmail.com 314A Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571 • BHHSTaosRealEstate.com • 575 758 1924 • 800 530 8899

Vista Linda Living

Paradise In Taos Canyon

Cute Adobe

This custom built 2019 sft home offers numerous one-of-a-kind features including vaulted cielings with skylights and fans and a well-lit artist’s studio. Two large wood-burning stoves provide loads of heat in the winter that can save on propane costs. A 1400 sft combination garage/carport/supply room and workshop offer lots of extra space for your projects. The buildings are surrounded by immaculate landscaping. An automatic drip irrigation system takes care of the watering. A hot tub and deck sit above the buildings in the back. This 3BR/2BA/2CG home sits on 2.81 beautiful acres bordering forest land. MLS #95524 $498,900

Cute inviting adobe originally built around 1860. 1180 sft colorful main house with many improvements. New weather shield thermopane windows. New Farho energy efficient wall heaters. New electrical wiring installed in 2008.

New hot water heater. Living room has a kiva fireplace and French doors to the backyard. Saltillo tiles and wood floors. Newly renovated office/studio in backyard. Adobe storage shed with windows in front of house. This property has water rights on the Acequia del Madre de Rio Chiquito. This 1 BR/1BA house sits on a .46 acre lot. MLS #96148 $214,900

©2014 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates,LLC.Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

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36 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

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37 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

DIANE ENRIGHT, Assoc. Broker diane@taoshomes.com 575-758-5478 (direct)

BRANDON ROSE, Buyer’s Broker Prudential Legend Chairmen’s Circle 2013

brandon@taoshomes.com 866-758-5478 (toll free)

www.taoshomes.com

314A Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571 • BHHSTaosRealEstate.com • 575 758 1924 • 800 530 8899

View Finder.

A “WOW” In Weimer

Marvelous, mountain views from this like-new 2BR/2BA/1CG 1,890 sq. ft. home in desirable Des Montes. High coved ceilings, lots of windows, & 3 FPs w/ slate, tile, & cork floors. (Slab in place for studio or guesthouse) $375,000 MLS#96257

Follow your dreams to this 2,600 sq ft 3BR/3BA home in a dream location. Lg kitchen, open living area w/ lots of light & big views. Private courtyard w/ deck. Nat’l gas, sub floor radiant heat, tile floors, & 2 whirlpool tubs. $397,500 MLS#95492

Kudos To Quality So many upgrades – So many thoughtful touches – it even has air conditoning. This 3BR/2BA/2CG, 2,800 sq. ft. home enjoys a pastoral setting on 1.4 ac. Custom kitchen. Office. Updated alarm & smoke detecting systems. $425,000. MLS#93173

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Southwest Chic

Good Things Come In Small Packages

The flavor of Old & New Mexico combined. This well maintained 3BR/2BA/2CG w/ 2,435 sq ft home on 3 ac. w/ colorful tile accents in the spacious kitchen w/ stainless appliances. Fantastic great room w/ high ceilings & kiva FP. $514,000. MLS# 96011

Let this cool, in town condo be your romantic retreat or week-end hide-a-way. 1BR/1BA condo remodeled w/ granite countertops, Jotul gas stoves, thermopane windows, hardwood floors, & skylights.

Walled private patio. $164,000 MLS#94976

Sunny Disposition.

This 2BR/1.5BA home in pretty setting amidst trees w/ open living area will put a smile on your face.

Attached office w/ separate entrance and ½BA. Lg storage room. $275,000 MLS#96230

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Too Good To Be True?

So-O-O-O Southwest

You decide. In town 2BR/2BA condo next to Kit Carson Park. Carport + 1 parking space. Furnishings avail.

Price reflects land lease which expires in 2020 w/ no existing provision for extension so price reflects risk too.

Game on? $67,000 MLS#95688

Beautifully remodeled 2,707 sq ft adobe w/ 3 kiva FPs, vigas, coved ceilings, Saltillo tile, & courtyard.

Upscale kitchen w/ granite & stainless, bar, spa room, artists studio, & den. Lg portal w/ fenced, landscaped backyard. $465,000 MLS#95930

Taos Fusion You have so many options with 2BR/2BA main house & spacious guesthouse (1BR/1BA) studio, or office/ business space in a pastoral setting on .86+/- ac. w/ water rights, well & community water on paved road close to town. $399,000 MLS#94732

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Out Of The Ordinary

Abracadabra

The Great Escape

This remodeled 3BR/2BA home w/ artistic touches Home & Business. About 75K worth of inventory & Whether you’re escaping the big city, a big corporais kid & pet friendly (entire acre is fenced). It’s established route in Northern NM can be your ticket tion, or Big Brother, you’ll find refuge in this mountain great for artists or tinkers w/ a separate studio or to a new career in the vending/amusement field. retreat. This 3BR/2BA/heated2CG, 2,000 sq ft home workshop, or to grow your business from home w/ 3BR/2BA manufactured home & 2,400 sq ft workon 2 treed ac. provides privacy, yet not remote. Stelroom for office, equipment, & vehicles. $275,000 shop/storage/garage. $225,000 MLS#96228 lar kitchen. $435,000. MLS#94762 MLS#93983 ©2014 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates,LLC.Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

38 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

DIANE ENRIGHT, Assoc. Broker diane@taoshomes.com 575-758-5478 (direct)

BRANDON ROSE, Buyer’s Broker Prudential Legend Chairmen’s Circle 2013

brandon@taoshomes.com 866-758-5478 (toll free)

www.taoshomes.com

314A Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571 • BHHSTaosRealEstate.com • 575 758 1924 • 800 530 8899

Earth-Friendly Home …

The Hughes Estate

Energy-efficient, 3BR/1.5 BA, 2,518 sq ft adobe home w/ open floorplan & classic finishes. Passivesolar, kiva FP, sauna, greenhouse, + wrap-a-round porch. 1,400 sq ft guesthouse on 41.85 ac. overlooking the Hondo valley. $990,000 MLS#94910

A Rare Find.

Live Large in this 5,000+/- sq ft adobe compound w/ 3BR/3BA main w/ den/family rm, 1BR guest house, 3CG w/ workshop, patios & portals w/ ½ ct. basketball court, golf fairway, stone benches, & rock BBQ on 12 ac. $1,350,000 MLS#94814

Nat’l Historic Register. This classic 4,000 sq ft adobe circa 1800’s, once the home of Oscar Berninghaus, w/ 5 kiva FPs, vigas, nichos, bancos, & Saltillo tile. 3BR/3.5BA/2CG plus den, dining, lg kitchen & beautiful patio & portals. $925,000 MLS#96139

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Double Your Pleasure.

Perfect Protected Views

Two homes in one fantastic in-town location. Main home is classic adobe w/ tasteful remodel. 3 FP w/ 2,195 sq ft. Guest is 2,479 sq ft w/ contemporary flair. Expansive patio enhances both. $975,000 MLS#96265

This 4,000+ sq ft adobe home on 4 ac. is imbued w/ huge views. 3BR/3BA/2CG, deluxe office, workout room, covered patio w/ 2 kiva FPs, plus grand living room, great kitchen, & incredible dining room.

Borders Pueblo land. $925,000 MLS#93944

Bold & Beautiful This mountain cabin w/ floor to ceiling windows provides an abundance of light w/ dramatic mtn. vistas.

The LR, dining, & kitchen are open w/ high vaulted ceilings. 3BR/3BA w/ heated 2CG & access to El Salto waterfall. $649,000 MLS#94867

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Expect The Exceptional.

A River Runs Thru It.

This custom 3,375+/- sq ft adobe on 6+ ac is exceptional & immaculate. Living areas open w/ high ceilings, vigas, wide plank floors, & walls of windows. Exceptional kitchen. Generous portal/patio for enjoying the outdoors. Priced $895,000 MLS#95094

An extraordinary site with lots of river frontage w/ 3,000 sq ft home w/ room for expansion. Pastoral & private and minutes to historic Taos Plaza. The park like setting will delight kids and you can all fish from your property. $550,000 MLS#96234

Size Does Matter!

If you need lots of space look no further…. This in-town home has 4,000+ sq ft, 5BR, 3BA (2 master suites or convert to guest house). Airy kitchen, formal dining, room, den/family room & T.V. room + 2CG on .99 ac. $499,000 MLS# 95099

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Steal Of A Deal.

Simply Gorgeous!

Superior Site.

Picture Perfect Views.

3.38 ac. golf course lot w/ stunning views for only $75,000. MLS#95768

5 ac. parcel overlooking Rio Grand & Rio Hondo Rivers. $119,900 MLS#96112

2.90 ac homesite a few minutes east of Taos plaza. $259,000 94843

1.97 ac w/ views of sacred Taos Mountain close to everything! $69,000 mls#94892

©2014 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates,LLC.Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

39 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

Joel K Schantz,

Qualifying Broker CRB Yvonne Lewis, Assistant to Broker JoelsTaosRealEstate.com jschantz@newmex.com 575-758-1924 • 800-530-8899

#1 Real Estate Company in Taos (formerly Prudential Taos Real Estate)

314A Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571 • BHHSTaosRealEstate.com • 575 758 1924 • 800 530 8899

Quail Ridge Resort 2 Condos close to TSV and Town of Taos. Upstairs 526 sf studios; 141U furnished, move-in ready with vacation rental history. 143U is a new listing! 141U reduced to $85,000 MLS 93097; 143U at $79,000 MLS 95987 or both for $150,000!

Casita In Desirable Cañon Close to plaza, restaurants, galleries and retail shops.

1 BR/1 BA home plus finished and insulated oversized garage. Convert garage to guest house or studio. Septic permit approved for TWO 1 BR units.

Price reduced to $197,500 MLS 94704

San Cristobal Treasure This 3 BR/2 BA 2093 sf passive solar home features octagonal-shaped LR/DR/KIT area & wood stove.

Master suite w/ large deck. Bonus area perfect for family/media room. Piñon, juniper trees & lawn on 2.5 acres. $299,000 MLS 95558

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Contemporary Condo Great in town location. 1847 sf 2 story 2 BR/2 BA. Modern kitchen opens into LR/DR area w/ access to patio perfect for entertaining. Upstairs master suite w/ loft niche & deck. Complex has only 2 units. $385,000 MLS 96238

Stylish Townhouse 3 BR/3 BA 2220 sf solarium style entry. Great room design features kitchen with granite counters and custom cabinetry. Upstairs Master suite, office area and deck. Attached 1 CG, private flagstone courtyard. $425,000 MLS 96149

Authentic Adobe In Des Montes renovated in 2007. 4 BR/3 BA 2600 sf features pine floors, viga ceilings, 2 FPs, and butler’s pantry. 2011 Great room addition using green materials. Pond, acequia and water rights on 1.35 acres. Price reduced to $585,500 MLS 95922

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Pueblo Home In Weimer Staged 3 BR/2.5 BA 3220 sf home; open floor plan.

Kitchen has ample cabinets, island and breakfast bar. High ceilings, custom cabinetry and doors.

Attached 2 CG and private outdoor areas. Priced reduced to $595,000 MLS 93835

Authentic Adobe In historic La Loma Plaza. Beautiful 2 BR/2 BA, 1916 sf home remodeled in 1980. Viking appliances, 2 kiva fp, custom doors & wine cellar. MBR w/ ensuite bath. Landscaped walled yard perfect for entertaining! $685,000 MLS 95202

Exquisite Craftsmanship Luxury Pueblo style home. 3 BR/2.5 BA 3100 sf, attached 3 CG. 3 kiva FP, high ceilings, Viking appliances, sandstone counters and high end finishes throughout. Expansive covered portal with sunset views. $715,000 MLS 95155

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Custom Build With Sunset Views 3BR/2.5BA 2886 sf custom home. 872 sf portal off LR/DR and MBR. Reclaimed oak floors, Alderwood cabinetry and doors. 11’ viga ceilings, Viking appliances, CO sandstone counters and 4 kiva FP. Attached 2 CG. $725,000 MLS 93188

Enchanting Adobe Hacienda Taos Country Inn B&B. 8 luxury suites with hand carved doors, kiva FP and ensuite baths; plus private owners’ quarters. Perfect as a family compound. Lush gardens on the Rio Pueblo, bordering Pueblo land. $895,000 MLS 94622

Masterpiece on the Rio Pueblo Bordering the Rio Pueblo designed to capture the serenity of this picturesque setting. 3 BR/4 BA 4000 sf of living space. 665 sf studio/guesthouse with green features. 2 CG with workshop on 2.84 acres. $1,650,000 MLS 93651

©2014 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates,LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

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40 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

Joel K Schantz,

Qualifying Broker CRB Yvonne Lewis, Assistant to Broker JoelsTaosRealEstate.com jschantz@newmex.com 575-758-1924 • 800-530-8899

#1 Real Estate Company in Taos (formerly Prudential Taos Real Estate)

314A Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571 • BHHSTaosRealEstate.com • 575 758 1924 • 800 530 8899

Great Opportunity In Weimer Close to Hospital and Youth & Family Center. 4200 sf building, open floor concept. Upstairs apartment has kitchenette and bath. Easy access, ample parking on 1 acre. City sewer, well water and natural gas. Price reduced to $425,000 MLS 92512

Classic Adobe Within walking distance of Taos Plaza. Built in the 1930’s awaiting transformation. Great for a family compound, condos, or apartments. Zoned R-14, 0.86 acre. Bring your imagination and your passion. $449,000 MLS 93875

Professional Office Good investment, great tenants. Residential property conversion; remodel completed in 2005. 4,268 sf borders Pueblo land. Town sewer, natural gas, well and zoned C-2. Can tie in to town water. ADA accessible. $475,000 MLS 96054

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Prime Commercial Property Prime commercial property across from Walgreens.

Develop into a commercial condo or strip mall, currently used by Taos Trade Days (local flea market). $760,000 MLS 95527

Inn On The Rio On the banks of the Rio Fernando. 12 room B&B celebrates Taos art and style in every room. The lobby features a custom Carmen Velarde kiva FP. Private onsite owners quarters, with hot tub and pool on 1.8 acres. $840,000 MLS 93961

Taos Tennis Ranch Commercial Tennis complex. 6820 sf club house features pro shop, meeting room and restaurant with full kitchen. 10 tennis courts, 35’x65’ swimming pool, 988 sf pool house/sauna, 10’x10’ children’s pool and hot tub. $1,400,000 MLS 95453

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Great Investment Property Great investment property; can be divided! 360 degree views and easy access to town or Taos ski Valley. Both tract B-2 and C (MLS 95755) may be purchased together. $98,000 MLS 95754

Los Pandos Estates Great in-town building site on 1 acre with city water, sewer, and natural gas. Conservation easement protects your views to the east. Build your dream home! $120,000 MLS 94794

Pastoral Setting In Cañon Pastoral setting in Cañon on 2.35 acres. Rio Fernando runs through property. Close to town, yet secluded. Great building site. Additional acreage available. $150,000 MLS 91592

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Build Your Dream Build your dream home on the Rio Pueblo!

Picturesque setting under shady cottonwood and Russian olive trees on 2.40 acres. Serene and verdant surroundings just 10 minutes from anywhere in town. $179,000 MLS 95723

Great Location!

Great location for development! R-4 zoning on 1.39 acres, ideal site to build five condos and still have views. Conveniently located to all town amenities and easy to tie in to town utilities. $215,000 MLS 95224

Cottonwoods And Canyons 150.89 acres with cottonwoods, piñons and junipers bursting with fall colors. Hike, bike and fish.

Rio Cieneguilla, natural springs and pond bordering BLM. $525,000 MLS 96122

©2014 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates,LLC.Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

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42 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

575-770-0569 kiva@newmex.com taosnmrealestate.com

Kiva Harris

Associate Broker

Experienced Broker for Buyers & Sellers Longtime Taos Resident Property Management 314A Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571 • BHHSTaosRealEstate.com • 575 758 1924 • 800 530 8899 Move right into this immaculately maintained pumice home with huge views and lots of light. 3 bed/2 ba on 1 acre. Saltillo tile, coved ceilings, new efficient BEAUTIFUL LAND boiler, nat’l gas, low heating bills. Patios & Unique Northern New Mexico land near Taos. Almost 4 acres covered with old growth pinon & bordering National Forest. Serene & secluded with good landscaping provide building sites, & views. Owner financing available! lovely outdoor spaces. $45,000. MLS 95448 Excellent location.

Also two 3.24 acre pieces for $32,000 each.

You’ll be happy here!

MLS 95449, 95450 WONDERFUL HOME $380,000. MLS 94846

NICE You can put your mobile or modular home on this land. 1 acre for only $20,000 MLS 92286 ©2014 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates,LLC.Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

NAVIGATING COMPLEX ECONOMIC TIMES

Vanessa Dimond

Ted Dimond

The best source for home financing in New Mexico.

DIMOND

Donna Nelson

MORTGAGE A CUT ABOVE THE REST dimondmortgage.com • 575.758.5566 524 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Suite H, Taos, New Mexico Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

NMLS# 190187

43 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

Larissa Schaetz

InsideOut At Taos Lifestyle, you will find styles, from classic contemporary to rustic country. Taos Lifestyle is home to La Z boy, and American Leather, and many other fine furniture brands. You’ll find lighting, occasional tables, rugs, bedroom and dining room furniture and accessories to complement any room. Complimentary in-home design service is available. Taos Lifestyle has the largest selection of Serta and Tempurpedic mattresses in stock in Northern New Mexico. Delivery, removal, and set up is available throughout the region.

Taos Lifestyle is located in the Albertson’s Shopping Center-710 Paseo del Pueblo Sur. We are open 7 days a week. Find us online at Taoslifestyle.com 575-758-5885.

Red Arrow Emporium Inc., the most beautiful furniture showroom in New Mexico. We are the place for fine furniture, fine lighting and flooring.

We offer the largest selection of American-made sofas, chairs, sectionals, chaises, loveseats and ottomans, in leather, fabric and ultra-suede.

Pictured is one of our fabulous American-made sofas from our “Grand Ranch Collection”, The Turquoise Trail Estate Sofa, with a rich brown smooth high-end leather and tooled turquoise leather. We also feature our 2 Hoop Old Hickory Rocker with black bear on leather with southwest fabric! You’ve been to the rest now come to the best! Located 2 miles north of Taos Plaza on the main highway. Phone (575) 758-0540.

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

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2008

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

45 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

price comparison | here & there

Living in Season Enjoy seasonal living any time of the year. Compare these ideal properties where summer, winter, spring and fall each have their own unique appeal.

Taos, NM

Boulder, CO

$299,999

$1,150,000

Authentic Adobe on Hondo Mesa

West End Condo

3BR/2BA 1601 sq. ft., 1.43 acres MLS 95967

2BR/3.5BA 1814 sq. ft., 0 acres MLS 738929

With magnificent views of mountains, gently rolling sage plains, and big skies, this Pueblo-style home features authentic adobe construction, ceramic tile floors, viga/tongue-and-groove ceilings, and a terrific open floor plan. The great room encompasses a living area with a cozy wood stove, the dining area, and the kitchen, which has stainless steel appliances. With three bedrooms, two baths, and a dedicated laundry room, this 1,601-square-foot contemporary Southwest home offers comfortable, relaxed living. Built in 2007 and sited on 1.43 acres on Hondo Mesa, the home is an easy drive to the Town of Taos, Taos Ski Valley, and points north. Attached oversized one-car garage.

This townhome-style condo in the Pearl Street Lofts offers a great floor plan for entertaining, with maple floors throughout the main level, a large south deck with Flatiron views, cherry kitchen cabinets and stainless steel appliances, and a large island for informal dining. The master suite has a gas fireplace and a luxury bath with steam sauna and jetted sunken tub. Washer/dryer hookups, skylights, central air conditioning. Built in 2007, the condo has two bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths and measures 1,814 square feet. Attached oversized one-car garage, new carpet, recently painted.

Contact: Page Sullivan Page Sullivan Group Coldwell Banker Lota Realty, Inc. Telephone: 575-758-7890 page@taoshomepage.com

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

Contact: John McElveen RE/MAX of Boulder Telephone: 303-441-5652 johnmac@boulderco.com

46 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

Linda Knief

Associate Broker 575-758-0080 OFFICE EACH OFFICE INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED 575-770-4758 CELL

TRADESMEN Builders

lindaknief@taosnet.com

829 Paseo del Pueblo Sur Taos, NM 87571

“Making Your Dream Home A Reality”

*Remodeling *Renovation *Additions *New Construction *Porches/Portals *Tile *Trim/Cabinets Spacious two story, two bedroom, two and a half bath with open concept living space. Designed for family or two separate residences. The second story living area and large deck have splendid views. The acequia runs clean and clear along the side of a cool and calming green space.

See our Website for a list of Complete Services

www.tradesmenbuild.com

758-2458

Jaysen Clark, Owner/Operator License #380382, Bonded, & Insured

MLS# 94884

$325,000

Call Linda 575-770-4758

Interested in seeing your Taos photo published in the next issue of Enchanted Homes?

I am.

Submit your photos today!

Call 758-2241 x113 or e-mail josmanski@taosnews.com for details.

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

47 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

7276 Highway 518, Ranchos de Taos, NM 87557

Brian Stenum Qualifying Broker

575-779-1498

www.TaosRealEstateInfo.com

3-ac Lot in Weimer with spectacular views of the Taos valley and Taos mountains. Utilities available at or very near the lot. You can’t beat this site for building your dream home! MLS 95120 $189,000

Grab this absolutely gorgeous 20-ac parcel with wide open unobstructed views of the mesa west of Taos and the Taos Mountains to the east. Only about 3-miles from the Rio Grande River. MLS 94793 $70,000

BLACK LAKE MLS#95019 – 1.0 Acres.

Forested land with some steepness on north side. Two great building spots.

Offered for $33,000.

Restaurant or Retail. Breath-taking views of the Taos Mountains from back patio, with gardens & a pond.

If you can dream it, they will come.

Includes 1300+/- sq ft 2-bed 1-bath home. MLS 95149 $529,000

Enjoy wide open views & peaceful living in this cozy 3BD/2BA home.

Large windows for maximum light & solar heating. Watch spectacular sunsets from back porch. Fully fenced yard. MLS 91887 $224,000

Looking for a complete list of all homes available in the Taos area?

Check out TaosHomeListings.com

0.85-ac Lot with dbl-wide mfd homes allowed. Wide open views of the valley & mountains. MLS 94275 $47,500 Spacious 4BD/3BA 2630+/- sq ft home on large partially fenced 2.18-ac lot. Huge 2-car garage/ workshop. Just minutes from town - enjoy “country-like” living. You will love this one. MLS 95406 $280,000

Don’t miss these prime retail or gallery units in Taos Central Business District. 3 units with high-volume sidewalk traffic in main tourist district. Space available for lease as well. MLS 94952 $690,000

Large 1 or 2BD/2BA condo, full kitchen with all appliances, private covered parking, private storage room, & private courtyard. North end of Taos convenient to town or the Ski Valley. MLS 79448 $129,999

AMALIA MLS#95186 - Enjoy the beauty of the area for this 1.16 Acres. Water & sewage connections at lot. Part of Rio Costilla Subdivision. Offered for only $40,000.

RICE

ER P

LOW

COMMERCIAL BLDG MLS#94340 - Great office space with highway frontage!

Approx. 4116 sq.ft. Lots of options for any necessary conversions.

Spacious lobby with ample office space and cubicles.

LOWER PRICE OF $448,000 (owner/agent)

PEÑASCO MLS#93133 - Large home with many extras.

4bds/2.5ba, 5 car carport, with upstairs currently being used as beauty salon. Lots of room for the price. Only $258,300

LOWER COLONIAS MLS#88503 – 1.50 Acres with views and nice building spot. Check into this one for your next home site.

Offered for $39,000

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

1.24-ac Lot on Vista Linda Rd; wide-open views; near golf; owner-financing possible.

MLS 91581 $45,000

7276 Highway 518, Ranchos de Taos, NM 87557

Albino Martinez Qualifying Broker

575-770-5600

www.SearchTaosRealEstate.com

QUESTA MLS#93511 – Spacious home with lots of room. 3bd/2ba, over sized garage, open dining, living room area and much more.

Located in the Village of Questa.

Offered for only $129,000

BLUEBERRY HILL MLS#94961 2.0 Acres on Blueberry Hill Road.

Building site for your next home. Offered for only $60,000

CONDO UNITS MLS#95973 Investment potential Four units available as all in one sale or a combination of 1 & 2 or 2 & 3 can be sold.

Unit 4 can be sold individually.

Call for details. Close to Town and Taos Spa. Offered for $580,000

48 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

CASA ENCANTADA REALTY

7276 Highway 518, Ranchos de Taos, NM 87557 575-751-0013 O 575-770-0655 C 751-0275 F fishrman@newmex.com www.tedterryintaos.com

Ted Terry Qualifying Broker

D UCE D E R

In Town Compound on Quesnel St. Just listed three units on .58 acres, everything zoned CBD. One two story with 1bed/1bath upstairs and and 2beds/2bath downstairs.

All adobe with fireplaces in both. The neighboring 1bed/1bath home is adobe too and features 2 fireplaces. 3185 sq/ft. One block from the Plaza. MLS# 95209 $743,000.

Live in the wilds of Southern Colorado. Off the grid cottage style 2bed/2bath home on 40 acres. 14 acres fenced for stock. Battery system backed up by propane generator.

Permitted 400 foot well produces plenty of water for home, grounds and animals.

MLS#94817 $169,900.

CED U D RE

Llano Mesa Tract - 24.76 affordable acres suitable for subdivision. Owner will consider financing part of the purchase price with a good down payment.

MLS# 94778 / $247,500

1.09 acre zoned R4 with frontage on Ranchitos Rd and Santistevan Lane.

Close to the Plaza location for your next perfect home or maybe four developed homesites. MLS# 95633 / $150,000.00

Las Cordovas - Rio Pueblo frontage with irrigation rights. 7.25 acres, power phone and well on site. This land could be farmed again as it once was. Priced to sell.

MLS# 96159 / $193,000.00

Country Club Lot 63 - 3.00 acres on Baird Drive. Still the lowest priced country club lot.

MLS #81675/$79,000.00 Owner/Broker

The winter menus have arrived.

Dining Out Winter/Spring 2015

taosmenus.com

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

49 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

4

100 CELEBRATING OUR FIRST

Issues

OUTSTANDING KITCHENS FROM OUR FIRST 100 ISSUES

Issue 82

The most

inviting room

Tom and Joelle Knapp, transplants from Texas, found the perfect and scenic spot to build their Taos home on Verde Road.

The house, which is 3,500 square feet, has two impressive, 3-foot wide archways leading into the private areas of the home and the open plan kitchen/dining room. The house stays true to local design. Only in the kitchen, where the stainless steel appliances surround the massive, stone counters and island, has modern design crept in.

The long dining table in the adjacent space is an inviting spot for entertaining. Tom noted they love having people over for a meal.

“Everyone always wants to be in the kitchen!”

Joelle says.

A kitchen

fit for a chef

Issue 92

Chris Maher designed his El Salto home around the kitchen — not surprising since he is a professional chef.

He and Valerie Mahar have a food business — Caleb and Milo Products. While the food line is produced elsewhere, their home kitchen is often used for cooking classes.

“I designed the kitchen for a big group,” Chris says. “I wanted enough space for people to work in. But first and foremost it had to be for my pleasure.”

Pots and pans hang over a massive island made of six-inch solid rock maple. The stove is a 1948 Wedgewood gas range. The table off the kitchen is large enough to seat a dozen or more.

Then there is the outdoor kitchen with a wood-burning pizza oven, a hooded gas stove and a massive cutting board.

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

50 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

Heart of the house

Issue 52

Bill and Belinda Miceli designed their El Prado home on a cocktail napkin before they showed it to contractor Philip Maestas.

And as the former hosts of a radio show “Cooking with Sam N’ Ella,” the kitchen was naturally an important part of this 2,800-square-foot adobe.

The front door leads to the heart of the house, encompassed by a dining room, commercial kitchen, pantry and sitting room, all capped by impossibly high 20foot ceilings.

The kitchen features commercial stainless shelving and cabinetry painted in a raucous array of color. A whimsical sign over the range hood says “Never Enough Thyme.”

“We’ve had up to 110 people in this room,” Bill said, prompting the good memories of various other gatherings of friends and cooking.

Issue 95

A desirable

kitchen

This home at 54 Sol Grande in Des Montes is a blend of comfort and luxury designed by Taos architect Bill Hoffman.

The 3,800-foot-home, which was built in 2002, is a traditional adobe style complete with vigas and canales.

The kitchen is noteworthy for the harmonious way it blends into the home.

Granite countertops, the tiled backsplash, and stainless steel appliances — including a Viking ranges with six burners and two ovens — give the kitchen a sleek yet country ranch feel. There is plenty of cabinet space for food and gadget storage.

A kitchen table is located in front of the sink island making it easy for uninterrupted conversation between the cook and dinner guests.

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

51 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

real estate finance | Ted Dimond

Appraisals key in residential mortgage lending

BY TED DIMOND

Residential mortgage lending is a collateral-based business.

When a borrower applies for a mortgage — whether to purchase or refinance a house — the lender, or investor, evaluates the borrower’s ability to pay back the loan by reviewing income and credit.

Simultaneously the investor, by federal mandate, requires an objective party to assess the market value of the property. The security for the mortgage is the property itself. Should the borrower fail to pay the mortgage the lender would take the property. That lender wants as much assurance as possible the property is worth the value the loan was based upon.

When you apply for a residential mortgage, an appraiser will be assigned the task of producing a standardized report or appraisal to evaluate market value.

In most cases the borrower pays for the appraisal; however, the appraiser works for the lender.

Years ago, in an effort to demystify this process I asked an old friend, an expert Taos appraiser, to help explain the nature of the report, the methodology and the appraiser’s relationship to the transaction and the principals. The late Ed Adams was most knowledgeable about Taos County and surrounding area and served on the National Board of Directors for the Appraisal Institute as vice-chair of Region 8, which includes Texas and New Mexico. He also served on the National Finance Committee of Appraisers.

“Appraisers are not deal facilitators,” Ed explained. “We are not advocates, we are observers, the trained eyes and ears of the lender. “ Appraisers are local experts that utilize both standardized objective measurements and characteristics along with their expertise of the nuances of their community to compare the subject to other properties that have sold within a reasonable distance and time of the subject.

Ed referred to this comparison of like properties as “the principal of reasonable substitution.” An appraiser finds at least three similar properties that have sold, ideally in the last 90 to 180 days, and based on comparison concludes that if these homes sold for X, Y and Z, it’s reasonable to assume the subject would sell for a similar price in this same marketplace.

Many of the standards used for comparison are objective: square footage, room count, garage, and fireplaces are examples. But as Ed noted, “Many of the variables are subjective especially with regard to the condition and physical depreciation of the home. This is where local expertise is essential, knowing what is typical of an old adobe or expected from an Earthship.

The subjective decisions of an appraiser can influence value by as much as 20 percent.”

As a mortgage broker I’ve often had buying clients ask me why the appraiser receives a copy of the purchase agreement when preparing an appraisal.

Their concern is that if the appraiser knows the contract price for the home, Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

the buyer is not getting a truly “blind appraisal.” The suspicion is that the appraiser knows the price and meets it to make the deal.

“The appraiser must receive the purchase agreement according to federal law,” Ed said this is because, “we need to know if the seller is paying any concessions, if private property such as artwork, furniture or a car is included in the deal, or if there are any unusual terms or conditions.” He went on, “We don’t know the value of the house, only the agreed upon purchase price, when we receive the purchase agreement. We’re hired to use the available sales data from the community to then establish value for the lender.”

Ed had two answers when asked what the biggest challenges are for an appraiser in this market.

“First there is not enough sales data to reliably find strong comparable sales.

There were around 275-300 residential home sales during some big years in this market. In 2010 there were about 167 and just a bit over 200 per year in 2013 and 2014. As the numbers shrink the numbers of sales in each price strata are reduced giving the appraiser less data to work with.”

This problem is exacerbated in a market like Taos as we don’t have tract homes reproduced throughout the county. We do have idiosyncratic homes that reflect the independent nature of our citizens and region. This only makes the appraiser’s job more challenging.

The other issue that impacts appraisals is the number of foreclosures in our area and how they affect values. When there are numerous bank sales, those “distressed sales” impact the appraisals in this small community Ed had explained that if a foreclosed property sells within 90 days of being put on the market it can be considered a sale “under duress” and the price can be adjusted accordingly. “But if that property is on the market for more than 90 days, it becomes more like any ‘arm’s-length transaction’ and the market is both impacting and being impacted by that sale.”

While mortgage lending is a collateral-based business, appraisals have been both more difficult to complete and equally difficult to assess. It’s not uncommon for two appraisers to value a home quite differently. We have seen 25-30 percent disagreements on the value of a home based on two different appraisers turning in reports on the same property within 30-60 days of each other. This is a result often of the subjective decisions made by appraisers as described above. It makes it difficult to reliably determine value although the industry has no better way of approaching home values than what is currently in place.

Ted Dimond has lived in Taos since 1976. He has been a residential mortgage broker since 1994 and has owned and operated Dimond Mortgage with his wife Vanessa since 2003. Ted can be reached via email Ted@dimondmortgage.com.

52 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

ife Changing Event...

L A Purchasing a Home!

Richard Hanlen, Qualifying Broker

575-758-5600 www.MariposaRealty.com

Changing Lives One Real Estate Transaction at a Time!

NO JOB IS TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

Custom Kitchens and Bathrooms Specializing in One of a Kind, fully customizable Concrete Countertops at an affordable price!

30+ years experience.

KEN SWENGEL CONSTRUCTION, INC. KEN SWENGEL, OWNER

575-779-0365 • 1523 Paseo del Pueblo Sur #B TAOS, NEW MEXICO 87571 ken@kenswengel.com www.kenswengel.com LIC. 380906 MEMBER OF THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

53 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

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 B

L O N

O

RT

E

RANCHITOS

Kit Carson Park

BLUEBERRY HILL

KIT

CA RS O

Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial

N

LAS COLONIAS

RD

TAOS

O

SU

R

CAÑÓN HEIGHTS

LP UE

BL

CAÑÓN

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. CI •

PA S

EO

TAOS CANYON

ANGEL FIRE

D E L CAÑÓN RD

WEIMER FOOTHILLS

To Pot Creek & Las Vegas

54 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

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

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

BLUEBERRY HILL An area of sagebrush mesas which a 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

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

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

An upscale neighborhood of rolling hills 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

ARROYO SECO, EL SALTO, DES MONTES

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 Los Córdovas average home sale price: $310,000

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

EL PRADO, RANCHITOS, CÓRDOVAS

ANGEL FIRE

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

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.

Average home sale price: $292,632

RED RIVER This historic ski town invites visitors to explore its Wild West history along with its many shops and restaurants.

Surrounded by the Carson National Forest, the village rests in a valley, with the Red River running through it.t Average home sale price: $251,4967

QUESTA An agricultural and mining town at the mouth of the Red River, with a compact downtown of shops and restaurants, and a variety of rural housing tucked between the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the Río Grande Gorge.

Average home sale price: $113,698

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 Homes Vol. CI •

55 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

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 2,203 square miles, the 7,000-foot high Taos valley is bounded in the east by soaring Sangre de Cristos of the southern Rockies, and in 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 above the Río Pueblo near Peñasco for centuries.

Taos Pueblo is the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the United States and the northernmost of the 19 Rio 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.

TOWNS, VILLAGES & SETTLEMENTS Incorporated (population): Taos (5,676), Questa (1,760), Red River (475), Taos Ski Valley (69) Unincorporated: Amalia, Arroyo Seco, Costilla, Ojo Caliente, Pilar, Peñasco, Ranchos de Taos, Talpa, Tres Piedras, Valdez Source: UNM Bureau of Business and Economic Research

POPULATION Estimated 2012 population: 33,114 Source: UNM Bureau of Business and Economic Research

PUEBLOS Taos Pueblo: Sovereign government, governor with nine members, war chief with 12 members, all serving one-year terms: www.taospueblo.com Picuris Pueblo: Sovereign government, governor serves two-year term: www.newmexico.org/picuris

WORKFORCE STATISTICS (2013) Civilian labor force: 16,622 Employed: 15,130 Unemployed: 1,491 Unemployment Rate: 9.0 percent Source: Department of Workforce Solutions

Photo by Katharine Egli

TAOS COUNTY

AGRICULTURE Number of farms: 637 Total farmland: 456,932 acres Average size: 717 acres Market value of ag products sold: $5,992,000 (61 percent livestock, 39 percent crops) Largest crops: Cattle/calves, hay/alfalfa Source: National Agricultural Statistics Service (2007)

TEMPERATURE Month

High

Low Precip. Inches

January

42

11

0.62

February

47

18

0.57

March

55

24

0.79

April

63

30

0.80

May

73

39

1.14

June

83

47

0.98

July

87

52

1.49

August

84

51

2.06

September

78

43

1.49

October

66

32

1.31

November

53

21

0.80

December

43

12

0.74

Average

65

32

1.06

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

Total registered voters: 25,056 Democrats: 17,094 Republicans: 3,274 Declined to state: 3,748 Other: 940

Mid-range two-bedroom house, El Prado: $800

Source: Bureau of Elections

Source: Kokopelli Property Management

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

Two-bedroom condo w/courtyard, Taos: $900 Three-bedroom house, Blueberry Hill: $1,150-1,250

56 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

Photo by Katharine Egli

TOWN OF TAOS COMMUNITY PROFILE The 5.4 square miles of incorporated town of Taos spread out beneath the shadow of Pueblo Peak (12,305), 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.

Taos Puebloans inhabited the sage-piñon-juniper mountain front for several centuries before Spanish explorers arrived around 1600. Soon, Spanish settlers returned, armed with land grant decrees from the king. The central plaza became the hub of activity and the site of conflicts — often bloody — between the Spanish, natives and late-arriving Americans. 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 and 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 in Ranchos de Taos 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 called capillas and moradas.

The locals speak a patois of Castilian Spanish and English.

As the county seat, 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 irrigated by ancestral acequias, extend out from the rivers and streams.

POPULATION Estimated Taos 2012: 5,676 Source: UNM Bureau of Business and Economic Research

TAXES Gross Receipts Tax: 8.1875 percent Lodgers Tax: 5.00 percent Residential Tax Rate: 15.897 mills Source: UNM Bureau of Business and Economic Research; N.M. Department of Finance and Administration

SCHOOLS/HIGHER ED Taos Municipal School District: Ranchos Elementary, Enos García Elementary, Arroyos del Norte Elementary, Taos Middle School, Taos High School, Chrysalis Alternative School, Taos Charter School, Anansi Charter School, Taos Cyber Magnet, Vista Grande High School, Taos Integrated School for the Arts, Taos Academy Charter School, Taos International School

Ute Mountain and Río Grande del Norte National Monument; popular trails include Devisadero Loop, South Boundary Trail, Rim Trail Athletics: Taos Eco-Park (soccer, lacrosse)

FORM OF GOVERNMENT Mayor and four-member town council, staggered four-year terms; town manager; www.taosgov.com

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION Chile Line: local and area service, (575) 751-4459, www.taosgov.com/transportation/chile-line.php; 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 Holy Cross Hospital (575) 758-8883, www.taoshospital.org Taos Urgent Care (575) 751-1006 Taos VA Clinic (575) 751-0328 Mountain Home Health Care (575) 758-4786, www.mtnhomehealth.com

University of New Mexico-Taos, University of New Mexico Bachelor and Graduate Programs

Tri-County Community Services (mental health) (575) 758-1125

PUBLIC RECREATION FACILITIES

Taos Women’s Health Institute (575) 751-0334, www.taoswomenshealth.org

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 Hiking/Biking: Carson National Forest, www. fs.usda.gov/carson, (575) 758-6200; Bureau of Land Management, Taos Field Office, (575) 758-8851;

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

DRIVING DISTANCES Santa Fe: 70 miles Albuquerque: 131 miles Denver: 287 miles Dallas: 674 miles Phoenix: 595 miles

57 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

Current Happenings in Taos Real Estate

RE/MAX SELLS 1 HOME EVERY 42 SECONDS!

Mountain Realty Each Office Independently Owned & Operated

www.taosmls.com remax@newmex.com 575-758-5400

Linda Valaika, Associate Broker

COMPARISON OF 2013 - 2014 REAL ESTATE ACTIVITY January 1, 2014 - December 31, 2014 2014 2013 % of change Residential Sold Properties Average Sold Price Volume Sold Land Sold Properties Average Sold Price Volume Sold Multi-Family Sold Properties Average Sold Price Volume Sold Commercial Sold Properties Average Sold Price Volume Sold

CURRENT REAL ESTATE ACTIVITY

196 277,000 54,312,000

192 312,500 60,000,000

.02% -11% -09%

Current Residential Properties Average Listed Price Volume

192 $481,000 $92,000,000

47 129,500 6,100,000

63 119,000 7,500,000

-.25% 8% -.18%

Current Land Listings Average Listed Price Volume

307 $159,000 $49,000,000

1 299,250 299,250

1 71,400 71,400

32% 32%

Current Multi-Family Listing Average Listed Price Volume

8 $548,000 $4,400,000

4 628,000 2,500,000

8 417,000 3,300,000

-50% -.5% -24%

Current Commercial Listings Average Listed Price Volume

46 $600,000 $27,500,000

RATES ARE GOING UP. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE RATES WHILE YOU STILL CAN Loan Amount Monthly Payment* Fixed Interest Rates $100,000 $477.00 30 year Fixed Rate 4% $100,000 $715.00 15 year Fixed Rate 3.5% 30 year Fixed Rate 15 year Fixed Rate

3.875% 3.25%

$200,000 $200,000

$940.00 $1,405.00

*Rates quoted represent average rates without points and vary depending on credit score, loan size, and loan to value on conventional loans.

These statistics were obtained through data available from Taos County Board of Realtors. Rates provided courtesy of Wells Fargo Mortgage.

Have a great home?

Interested in seeing your Taos home featured in Enchanted Homes?

Submit your home today!

Call 758-2241 x113 or e-mail josmanski@taosnews.com for details.

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

58 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

Bryan Loveless | co-owner of Loveless Stone and Tile

what we wanted to do. We then focus on it to the exclusion of more traditional materials and products. This business originally started out as “Terra Firma,” possibly the first American company that manufactured and sold Saltillo tile in the United States in a widespread fashion. It was soon imitated and pricing for Saltillo tile became a race to the bottom. This experience ultimately led my father to work with unusual materials and niche applications and, after many intermediate stages, helped us become what we are today.

Contrary to what most companies do, we didn’t really grow our business, but refined our original operations and sold off the aspects we weren’t interested in anymore.

4 How have so many years of experience shaped your company? We have had a long time to develop unique aesthetics and a solid reputation for excellence that we strive to live up to and improve. Instead of trying to sell everything, we’ve chosen to specialize on a subset of unique materials.

5 Can you mention some of them? While we do sell some limestone, marble and granite, our overall focus is on sandstone products because of its beautiful natural appearance. Many people fear using sandstone because it can stain easily, but we have a proprietary process to make it truly stain resistant.

6 What is the biggest challenge for a niche business like yours here in Taos? As a niche business, the difficulty with operating in Taos is that it just doesn’t have a large enough population and economy to occupy all or even a fraction of our manufacturing capability. There are, however, some world-class contractors and designers in the Taos area so the local jobs that we do are always great. It’s just that we have to operate much farther afield to keep busy. Most of our work comes from some of the wealthier areas of the Western United States, but sometimes as far off as Mexico, the Caribbean and even Japan.

9

QUESTIONS

BY TERESA DOVALPAGE | PHOTO BY KATHARINE EGLI

1 Is there a signature style that characterizes Loveless Stone and Tile? While we are especially well known for a particular “rustic” look, we also have a signature style of classic and modern ensembles that incorporate our unique materials and philosophy of emphasizing craftsmanship to get great results and excellent feedback from our clients.

2 What is your current business focus? As a rule, our business focuses on quality over quantity. In every job, regardless of size, we focus completely on making sure that the customers get the exact look they are trying to achieve.

3 Your company was started over 50 years ago. How has Loveless Stone and Tile grown over five decades? The most important thing we’ve done is to find a niche that suited Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

7 Are there some local projects you have done that you would like to mention? In the Taos area, the two largest public spaces we’ve worked on are probably the Blackstone Ranch and El Monte Sagrado. Just about everything we make is present in those two buildings and all of the original stonework was provided by us. At El Monte Sagrado, the complex mosaic floor and Anasazi dry stacking in the main entrance, the fossil stone sinks in the bathrooms and the snake in the bar are some particular aspects we’re proud of. As for the Blackstone Ranch, the great hall is a perfect example of the rustic style we’re well known for, but built on an absolutely huge scale.

8 Among your newer products are carved sinks. Which are their advantages over traditional sinks? Carved sinks are mainly an aesthetic choice. They are unique and since they can be carved out of the same material as the surrounding vanity or countertop, they can seamlessly tie the installation together in a way that no other sink can. Since each sink is made to customer specifications, they can have pretty much any form you could possibly want, which is convenient if you want (or are constrained to) a non-standard sized or strangely shaped area to put them.

9 What is the most rewarding aspect of being a builder?

These days we are very disconnected from how everything in our life is made, since our economy has shifted from making things through industry into a service dominated economy. There is something immensely satisfying about starting from nothing but an idea in your head and taking raw, unfinished materials directly out of the Earth and making a finished product that people will appreciate. I think it’s an experience that is all too rare nowadays, which is a shame.

Loveless Stone and Tile Inc. is located at 200 A Bendix Drive, Taos NM 87571, Phone: (575) 758-3917, www.lovelesstile.com

59 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

TAOS SKI VALLEY Photo by Katharine Egli

Your Taos Ski Valley Specialist!

COMMUNITY PROFILE

SCHOOLS/HIGHER ED

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.

None; area within Taos Municipal School District

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. The Blake family has recently sold the resort to billionaire conservationist Louis Bacon.

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 backcountry skiing, and tubing. In the summer, the main chairlift takes hikers, mountain bikers and sightseers to mid-mountain.

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.

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: Rio Hondo, Lake Fork

FORM OF GOVERNMENT

LUXURIOUS HOUSE

CLOSE TO LIFT IN TAOS SKI VALLEY! Custom Home with Exclusive Remodel in 2010. Winner of the 2011 ASID STUDENT DESIGN AWARD, located just steps from the new Pioneer Glade ski lift. Modern, rustic home features high end appliances. Gourmet kitchen with granite island, spacious enclosed loft with reading nook. Great room with vaulted ceilings, fans, and high efficiency fire place. Scenic “TREX” Deck, radiant heat and fiber cement siding!

MLS# 95814 .........$779,000 ............... 3BR / 3BA

Mayor and four-member village council, staggered four-year terms; village administrator

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION Taos Chile Line www.taosgov.com (575) 751-4459 (Winter Only) Taos Express Winter Shuttle www.TaosExpress.com (575) 751-4459 (Winter Only) TSV daily shuttle to Santa Fe and Albuquerque airports, (800) 776-1111 (Winter Only)

HEALTH SERVICES

POPULATION Estimated Taos Ski Valley 2012: 69 yearround; up to 4,000 seasonal (winter) Source: Village of Taos Ski Valley Master Plan

TAXES Gross Receipts Tax Rate: 8.6875 percent Lodgers Tax Rate: 5.00 percent Residential Property Tax: 21.066 mills Sources: UNM Bureau of Business & Economic Research; N.M. Department of Finance and Administration

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. CI •

www.tsvrealty.com Keith Dowell, Qualifying Broker (575) 776.0600

60 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

COMMUNITY PROFILE

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.

Gold miners first settled the area in the mid-1800s.

These days, the local economy relies upon winter tourists who 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 ticket-buyers in a winter season. In the summer, lifts run for mountain bikers, hikers and sightseers.

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 and ATVs, and trail riding on horses is a popular summer activity.

The town of Red River administers municipal services for residents, visitors and nearly 200

Photo by Tina Larkin

RED RIVER

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.

National Forest, www.fs.usda.gov/carson, (575) 758-6200; popular trails including Red River Nature Trail, Columbine Trail, Sawmill Park Trail, Middlefork Trail, Goose Creek Trail

POPULATION

FORM OF GOVERNMENT

Estimated 2012: 475 year-round; approx. 4,000 seasonal

Mayor/town council and town administrator, with mayor and four councilors serving four-year, staggered terms; www.redriver.org, (575) 754-2277

Sources: UNM Bureau of Business and Economic Research; Red River Comprehensive Plan

TAXES

Fishing: Red River; Town Ponds

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

Gross Receipts Tax: 8.4375 percent Lodgers Tax: 5.0 percent Residential Tax Rate: 18.522 mills

Red River Miner’s Transit: free yearround service, with door-to-door service, redriver.org/public-transit, (575) 770-5959; town-operated heliport

Source: UNM Bureau of Business and Economic Research; N.M. Department of Finance and Administration

HEALTH SERVICES

SCHOOLS/HIGHER ED

Main Street Medical Clinic, 421 East Main St., (575) 754-6330: Family health and urgent care.

Questa Independent School District: Red River Valley Charter School, Questa Elementary, Questa Middle School, Questa High School, Cimarrón School District: Eagle Nest Elementary, Eagle Nest Middle School, Cimarrón High School, Moreno Valley High School

PUBLIC RECREATION FACILITIES General: Brandenburg Park, Woerndle Park, Mallette Park, Hiking/Biking/ATV-Snowmobiling: Carson

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

UltiMed Clinic (winter only), urgent care, in Lift House building of the Red River Ski Area, 200 A Pioneer Road; ultimed.com/pages/red.html, (575) 754-1773

DRIVING DISTANCES Taos: 36 miles Santa Fe: 106 miles Albuquerque: 165 miles Denver: 275 miles Dallas: 648 miles Oklahoma City: 511 miles

61 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

QUESTA

COMMUNITY PROFILE The incorporated area of the Village of Questa encompasses 5.1 square miles around the confluence of the Red River (Río Colorado) and Cabresto Creek – both tributaries of the Río Grande. The area is bounded by the Latir massif of the southern Sangre de Cristo Range to the east -- with Venado Peak (12,734 feet) as the highest – and the Guadalupe Mountains and the Río Grande Gorge to the west.

At 7,461 feet elevation, residents of Questa and the surrounding community experience at highdesert climate, with summer highs in the 80s and winter lows in the single digits.

Located between the San Luis Valley and Taos, Questa has long been a gateway for travelers heading north or south. The ancient trade route Kiowa Trail ran nearby, connecting tribes to the north with Río Grande Pueblos. Later, French fur traders used the route to reach the trading center in Taos and, in the 17th century, Hispanic land grantees settled in the area. Many land grant heirs still live on their original properties.

Agriculture has long been a mainstay of the Questa economy. Irrigation acequias draw water off the rivers and streams, and distribute it to hay, alfalfa and winter wheat fields surrounding the community. Raising sheep once dominated livestock production, but that enterprise has been largely been replaced by cattle ranching. Local forest traditions of wood gathering, piñon nut collection, grazing and hunting still persist.

In 2014, Chevron Mining closed its molybdenum operation and began reclamation of the Red River. In conjunction, Questa leaders have pushed to increase tourism in the scenic village, promoting fishing along the Red River and hiking in the mountains as the main attractions.

The village has opened a hiking trail from the village to the BLM’s Wild Rivers Recreation Area, which sits at the confluence of the Red River and Río Grande, and the downtown area has had a facelift. Passersby often pause in town to eat at a half-dozen restaurants that boast spicy Northern New Mexico cuisine.

Another attraction is the historic San Antonio de Padua church that is undergoing massive renovations, funding by local donations and performed by Questeños, after a wall collapsed and church leaders in Santa Fe considered closing it down.

POPULATION Estimated Questa 2012: 1,760 Source: UNM Bureau of Business and Economic Research

TAXES Gross Receipts Tax: 8.1875 percent Residential Tax Rate: 16.108 mills Source: UNM Bureau of Business and Economic Research; N.M. Department of Finance and Administration

SCHOOLS/HIGHER ED Alta Vista Elementary and Intermediate School, Questa Junior and Senior High School, Roots & Wings Charter School

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

FORM OF GOVERNMENT Mayor/Village Council, with mayor and four council members, serving 4-year, staggered terms; www.laplaza.org/ government/questa, (575) 586-0694

PUBLIC RECREATION FACILITIES Hiking/Camping/Fishing: Trails and waterways in the Carson Nat’l Forest, Questa Ranger District, (575) 586-0520, www.fs.usda.gov/carson; hiking and river access to the Wild Rivers Recreation Area, (575) 758-8851, www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/ prog/recreation/taos/wild_rivers_rec_area. html; Río Grande del Norte National Monument, (575) 586-1150, www.blm.gov/nm/ Ríograndedelnorte; Las Vistas de Questa trail

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION North Central Regional Transit District: regional service, (505) 629-4725, www.ncrtd.org; Questa Municipal Airport, general aviation, www.airnav. com/airport/N24; (575) 613-2853

DRIVING DISTANCES Denver: 262 miles Albuquerque: 154 miles Santa Fe: 94 miles Taos: 24 miles Red River: 12 miles

62 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

Courtesy Angel Fire Resort/Jim Merritt Photo

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 hasw 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; Elliott Barker Trail Complex; Greenbelt Trails; Oeste Vista; Lake and Lady Slipper Trails

POPULATION Estimated 2012: 1,181 year-round; approx. 2,000 summer

Fishing: Eagle Nest Lake State Park, (575) 377-1594; Cimarrón State Park, (575) 377-6271; Valle Vidal.

Source: UNM Bureau of Business & Economic Research; local Realtors

Athletics: Angel Fire Sports Complex – soccer, softball, rugby

TAXES

FORM OF GOVERNMENT

Gross Receipts Tax: 7.4375 percent Lodger’s Tax: 5 percent Sports & Recreation Fee: 2.4 percent Residential Tax Rate: 20.272 mills Average Colfax County Property Tax: $458/year on $150,000 property value

Village Council with four members and mayor, four-year, staggered terms: www.angelfirenm.gov

Source: N.M. Dept. of Revenue; N.M. Department of Finance and Administration

Moreno Valley Health Care Clinic 11 Elliott Barker Road No. A (575) 377-3301

SCHOOLS

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION None

HEALTH SERVICES

Cimarrón Municipal School District: Cimarrón Elementary/Middle School; Eagle Nest Elementary/Middle School; Cimarrón High School; Moreno Valley High School

UltiMed Clinic Ski Patrol Building Angel Fire Ski Resort (open in winter only) (575) 377-1805

PUBLIC RECREATION FACILITIES

DRIVING DISTANCES

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

Santa Fe: 92 miles Albuquerque: 154 miles Denver: 295 miles Dallas: 659 miles

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63 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

SEVEN STEPS TO A GOURMET KITCHEN STORY, PHOTOS AND HOME DESIGN BY VISHU MAGEE

Sometimes the best meals come from the simplest kitchens. It’s amazing to see river rats bust out a gourmet spread from their funky array of coolers, folding tables and camp stoves. In Africa and Asia, primitive wood fireplaces and water hauled by the bucket are no obstacle to stupendous feasts.

While it’s true that our kitchens brim with wonderful labor-saving devices, that’s no guarantee of great food. So what features can tip your kitchen in a gourmet direction? Here are seven elements that will help unlock your inner chef.

1. A working island As kitchens have grown bigger, the ’50s-style triangle of stove-sinkrefrigerator can require a significant hike between appliances. The central island with prep sink and obligatory granite countertop was a partial solution – albeit an expensive one that typically forced the kitchen to be even larger.

An affordable choice that works better in remodeling situations is a simple table with a 36-inch high top and a shelf below. This could

be a butcher block slab on legs, or a stainless steel table on casters.

Even a 2-foot-by-2-foot surface can make a huge difference for prep, mixing, or simply as a staging area.

2. The right surface for the job For decades, we’ve been given standardized workspaces where every surface is of the same material at the same height. But you’ll seldom see that in a commercial kitchen, where there’s wood for chopping, granite for pastry prep, and stainless steel for dishing and cooking.

Lower countertops may be better for shorter people or for Hobart mixers, while open mid-level shelves put constantly used items in easy reach.

Get inventive! In our small kitchen, we took two maple cutting boards straight from a kitchen store, cut them to size and set them in the tiled countertops like big wooden tiles – one near the sink for prep, and one by the fridge and toaster oven for sandwiches and toast. They’ve acquired appealing character for 25 years and will undoubtedly outlast the tile.

3. Store stuff where it can be seen Many kitchens are more about appearance than about cooking. It seems that doors and drawers have won the battle between cluttercontrol and practicality, consigning some items to recesses so dark we forget all about them.

Above: Open to kitchen, living room and dining room, this island provides seating for six, tons of prep space, and is home to a powerful Viking range with downdraft ventilation. The countertop is of honed sandstone.

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64 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

There are numerous ways to strike a more functional middle ground.

Drawer stacks and deep roll-outs are far better for stashing pots, pans and lids than conventional base cabinets with doors. Fullheight pantry cabinets with roll-out shelves and organizers avoid the problem of groping for foodstuffs at the back of 24-inch deep shelves.

Hanging racks for pots and pans display the hardware just an arm’s length from the stove.

Without a doubt, a walk-in pantry with not-too-deep open shelves is the best way to put the clutter where you can grab it. Though it may sound like an impossible extravagance, think again: on one remodel job I was able to transform a cramped kitchen by simply cutting a door and commandeering a little-used coat closet on the other side of the wall.

4. Firepower For a gourmet chef, a pro-style gas range is the single must-have appliance, whether you need to bring up the temp under a large wok or dial down the flame to a whisper under a sauce. It’s enormously helpful for the stove to be at least 36 inches wide, and to have generous countertop space on both sides. Complement the stove with good ventilation and lighting (I recommend Vent-a-Hood), and you’re ready to rock.

overstuffed drawer for a can opener or a particular spoon is just not an option. The same goes for spices, oils and sauces – so it’s critical to have all these items nearby and as visible as possible. Vertical spice racks, well-organized drawers, and countertop utensil holders and knife racks are the answer.

6. Easy cleanup Few cooks find volunteers ready to wash the dishes! So whether your style is clean-as-you-go or leave-it-until-later, this dreary task is made much easier by a big sink with enough deck space to pile the dirty cookware on one side and dry the clean items on the other. (By the way, a shallow basin is often kinder to your back.)

The dishwasher, trash rollout and compost bin need to be well placed – and of course an operable window with a view brightens the chore a lot.

7. Keep people where they belong

5. Utensils right at hand

This topic is quite subjective – but since everyone gravitates to the kitchen, you might as well accommodate them in a way that works for you. This could mean a few stools behind a counter that keeps guests at a safe distance, or it could mean putting them to work at a central island or at the sink. In either case, a layout with lanes 3 feet 6 inches wide will avoid bottlenecks without getting too huge for everyday coziness.

Big or small, the stove is where the magic happens. Yet it can get pretty frantic, and timing is everything — rifling through an

Vishu Magee has designed homes in Taos for 40 years and is available to assist with your project at www.vishumagee.com

Top Left: Tucked behind an adobe arch, this walk-in pantry offers convenient storage for cases of bulk items, cleaning supplies, a step ladder, and a recycling bin. Top Middle: Ordinary breadboards set into tiled countertops are great for sandwich making and food prep. Top Right: The classic island: granite countertop, a six-burner Viking range, powerful Vent-a-Hood, and seating for five. Bottom Left: Hand-forged iron racks flank a grill and cooktop, putting spices and oils within arm’s reach. The upper cabinets feature custom grills that make the contents visible. Bottom Right: This conventional island has one special feature: the granite countertop is extended and supported by a central post so as to serve as a comfortable dining space with extra cushy chairs.

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65 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

OFF BLUEBERRY HILL RD. LOOKING IN TAOS? Put my 28 years of Real Estate experience to work for you!

575-770-1850 Direct Line propertyintaos@gmail.com

Mary Gugino Associate Broker

829 Paseo del Pueblo Sur Taos, New Mexico 87571 575-758-0080 Office

TAOS MOUNTAIN SKI LODGE Taos Mountain Lodge features 10 Suites right beside the premier ski destination of TAOS SKI VALLEY. Live your dream, own and operate a ski lodge in this area that is quickly changing and growing! Taos Ski Valley is a destination for people who love to ski, snowboard, rock climb or just wanting a great summer or winter vacation. Separate private owners quarters with Fireplace and 2 bedrooms.

MLS 96137 $1,375,000

Sitting on an acre of land this is a Mike Reynolds original earthship. There is a wonderful wall of South Facing windows and tall vaulted ceilings in the open concept living dining room. Nice passive solar gain for winter warmth. House has lovely views of the Truches Mountains. Very private setting. Forget Heating bills! MLS 96143 $195,000

VALLE ESCONDIDO

TAOS CANYON

It’s like being on Vacation all year long! This is a lovely 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with an oversized 2 car garage and a nice wooded lot. Valle Escondido has a nine hole Golf Course, 2 fishing lakes and is surrounded by National Forest.

Just 20 minutes to downtown.

MLS 94790 $299,900

PUBLIC LAND ALL AROUND Just north of Taos in the Area known as El Rito Latir sits this sweet Passive Solar home featuring 2 Living Rooms, 2 bedrooms downstairs, 1 bdrm upstairs, plus adjoining office and ensuite bath. Great Decks and the most amazing views-hike, ride your horses or just relax and listen to the water running along the border of the land. $275,000 MLS #95965

16.5 Forested Acres in Taos Pines. This community is surrounded by the National Forest giving you miles and miles of hiking opportunities and just minutes to Angel Fire for world class skiing and golf. Priced at $139,900 MLS 93657

AWAY FROM IT ALL

3 BUILDING LOTS ON EOTOTO Large 2.69 acre building lot or subdivide into 3 lots with county approval. Big expansive views of the mountains plus easy and quick access to Historic Downtown Taos and the Taos Ski Valley.

Of course you have the best all around 360 degree views...and oh the amazing sunsets. MLS 90758 Priced at $149,000

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12.5 Acres for sale surrounding the Carson Post Office. Lots of possibilities for homes, or maybe even a commercial venture in this area between Ojo Caliente and Taos. MLS 94382 & 94379. Price $50,000 or buy 6 acres for $25,000

66 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

Tara Chisum | Realtor Profile

A love of homes Chisum remembers being quite frustrated early on her career because she did not see herself as a salesperson.

“I had no interest in being a salesperson,” she said. “Quite honestly, I don’t care for ‘salespeople.’ However, I’ve always loved homes — building, showing and marketing them … I also love researching, and negotiating, and I am obsessed with finding ways to do business better and smarter.”

She combined her love of homes with her entrepreneurial skills and found her own personal style, the one that now characterizes her transactions.

“I follow a consultative approach,” she said. “No sales tactics or pressure, just upfront honesty coupled with the data that allows clients to make smart decisions.”

A culture of teamwork Her personal motto is “a team of specialists will always outperform a group of generalists.”

“You can’t be the quarterback and the receiver,” she said. “It takes a team of talented people working together toward one goal to function at a high level.”

In 2010 she partnered with her mother and stepfather to start the Power of Teamwork Group. In five years, they have grown to a team of nine.

“The Power of Teamwork creates a culture that not only makes our clients successful, but it also makes work fun and rewarding,” she said. “My goal is for everyone involved with our company (employees, vendors, clients and community) to experience the Power of Teamwork.”

The Power of Teamwork

BY TERESA DOVALPAGE

Tara Chisum moved to Angel Fire at age 2 and spent her childhood years living in Loggers Ridge.

“I absolutely loved it,” she said. “I have fond memories of riding three-wheelers in the summer and enjoying ski team in the winter.”

When she was 10, her family moved to Hesston, Kansas, where her mother, Stephanie Hamilton, had a real estate company.

Chisum earned her real estate license when she was 18 and spent the summers working for her mother.

“I didn’t know it then, but my mother would end up becoming my business partner later in life,” she said. “What I did know, though, coming from a family of entrepreneurs —construction, real estate, music, video— was that I would end up working for myself.”

After she finished college, Chisum moved to Lake City, Colorado, where she owned a small residential construction company.

“In the process of building a home for my mom and stepfather, Stuart Hamilton, in Angel Fire, I fell in love with New Mexico once again,” she said. “It was as natural of a progression for my career to turn to real estate as it was for me to set roots in Angel Fire. Both came to be in the spring of 2007.”

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

Chisum’s advice to prospective Realtors is to invest in the very best training they can get.

“Never stop learning,” she said. “I’m huge believer in being learning-based. I have a business coach and every year I invest in the best training in the industry. No matter how far you have come, there is always more to learn.”

Current market trends As for the current housing market, Chisum thinks that real estate has been breaking out of its long slump, but many vacation markets are trailing behind.

“The kitchen is the heart of the home, so this is the place to start when preparing your house for sale,” said Chisum. “The second room to focus on is your master bath. Updated finishes and appliances are important to buyers in this market so be sure to consult a professional before making remodel decisions.”

Advice for staging kitchens and baths: 1. Keep the place thoroughly clean.

2. Limit the items on your countertops.

3. Keep your cabinets and pantries organized.

4. Ensure your window coverings allow maximum light in.

Follow these steps and your home will look and feel like a relaxing mountain retreat, ready for the next family to start making memories in it.

“And that’s good news for buyers,” she said. “Angel Fire, being a second-home market, does not experience the drastic highs and lows of primary-home markets, and like most vacation-home markets, Angel Fire’s shifts follow the national trends. While many housing markets in the United States have shifted to a balanced or sellers’ market, Angel Fire is currently in a buyers’ market with plenty of properties to choose from.”

Her advice to both buyers and sellers dealing with Angel Fire properties is to learn about the local market, keep up with the seasonal changes and unique criteria of vacation-home markets, and find a great Realtor to keep them informed.

“Information is power,” she said.

To get in touch with Tara Chisum, email her at tarac@kw.com, call 575 377-2321 or visit her website www.powerofteamwork.com.

67 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

Taos. Travel-sized.

: Liam

Photo

n

Dora

www.taosnews.com Dining Entertainment Calendar

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Market share | Harvey Blaustein

Well-designed kitchens and baths make great selling points

BY HARVEY BLAUSTEIN

Most folks enjoy the comfort of a good living room space, maybe with a wood-burning kiva fireplace, and views of our glorious mountains out a big picture window, as well as a nice-sized bedroom, maybe with a sitting area or a little work space. But the reality is that most homes are chosen because of the other rooms in the house — the ones that are essential — kitchens and bathrooms. And I see it more and more.

Let’s start with kitchens. For the most part, folks want a large space with an eat-in area. We all see how family and friends gravitate towards the kitchen, hanging out when they gather, even when seating isn’t available. Most people want the sink, the refrigerator and the stove to be close to each other so one can move easily and save steps. For upper-end homes, gourmand-style appliances are good, as is, flooring that is easier on the knees and older legs: wood, for example. And there needs to be a window over the sink. It’s almost mandated.

Cabinets matter but not as much as counter tops. If you are going to splurge on one or the other go for the counter tops. While some still prefer the color and charm of Mexican tiles, others see that as dated and look to find marble and/or granite, maybe soapstone or even concrete.

Less maintenance and more durable are both good ideas. And most want slabs rather than tiles but that varies with the price of the home.

Appliances matter. Most today are looking for at least stainless steel — white or almond being so yesterday. Those that buy upper end homes, say over $750,000, will expect to have something more than just newer, maybe one of the finer brands like Wolf or Subzero. Even those that may not need these upper-end babies will still like to say they have one. Even here in Taos.

While I don’t encounter it too often, I’d say a kiss of death is a house with a man’s kitchen in it. It is a space designed by a man, without consideration for a woman’s taste, preferences and expectations. So I’ve seen a few homes where there is no dishwasher, or where the sink does not have natural light in above it. Or where the placement of the important fixtures isn’t what it ought to be. These kitchens are sorta kinda like pornography in that it is hard to describe but one can tell it when one sees it. Not a good thing.

Islands are still favored, especially where one can have stools up against it, used for an alternative eating site. Or a place to have cocktails. And if it has a grille, all the better.

Closed cabinets are better than open for most folks. Some like the country feeling of glass and being able to see what lies beyond. Others prefer the privacy that solid doors afford and what they allow to be hidden.

And personally speaking, I’m a sucker for a live fire in a kitchen. Give

Enchanted Homes Vol. CI •

me a kiva at eye level and I’ve found home. There aren’t many of those around but to me fire and family go together. Oh, how I love the aroma of burning pinon.

The last two homes we owned we sold rather than remodeling our kitchens. The prices can be startling, and moving for us presented the better option. But if you are going to put money into your home, put it where folks see it most and where the soul of most homes is found — the eating space where families and friends like to gather.

Bathrooms count, too. In today’s world those spaces are for more than bathing and bodily functions. Cool ones can have fireplaces, bear-claw tubs, double sinks and sometimes even separate facilities, a his and hers — depending on the price point. I have seen them serve as workout areas, dressing rooms, and closets. And a sauna is a nice addition.

When I grew up, 100 years ago — or so it seems — bathrooms weren’t very big. There was a sink, a toilet, and a bathtub. Not much more.

Today, toilets are frequently behind a door, there are usually two sinks in a master bath room, and where Jacuzzi tubs were once the rage and a requirement, folks today seem to prefer large, spiffy showers, maybe one with several shower heads to get a more over-all spray.

Large showers can have steam capacities. We had one in a prior home with a simple bench in it. I found taking a steam at night was like taking a sleeping pill. It just chilled me out. These are a nice perk, especially in our dry climate.

And size does matter. Most bathrooms today can accommodate two people at the same time without anyone banging into the other. Or giving up private space.

I have seen some real creativity expressed in these spaces not often seen by guests. Rock and stone are used to make them feel more outdoorsy, more basic. And make sure the surfaces that are likely to get wet can take the water and not absorb it.

Here, one has a choice of flooring and counter material similar to kitchens. Options abound and earth tones are safest. I know of one owner who put in a purplish color scheme in their master bath and that house never sold. Although I did sell another home that had a bright purple master bath.

Kitchens and bathrooms are key rooms for anyone interested in purchasing a home. Today. Guaranteed.

Harvey Blaustein lives in Taos, is a real estate broker and used to be a practicing attorney.

69 • All properties can be found at www.enchantedhomeseller.com

final foto

by Rick Haltermann

“Yerba Creek”

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Kelly Haukebo

Associate Broker 575-770-0778