Enchanted Homes: The Kitchen & Bath Issue 2017

N O RT H E RN N E W ME X I CO’S RE A L ES TAT E & LI V I N G M AGA ZI N E • FE B RUA RY/M A RC H 2017

THE

KITCHEN & BATH ISSUE DIY BATHROOM MAKEOVER TIPS DAVID AND JUDY BUCK CELEBRATE 40 YEARS! AT HOME WITH KELLIE HARRIS

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

Welcome from the Taos County Chamber of Commerce

¡BIENVENIDOS!

The winter snows are celebrated throughout Taos County on our slopes and in our shops, restaurants and galleries. The community is invigorated with the sound of crunching snow under our boots and crystal-clear skies overhead. Enjoy skiing terrain for everyone from beginners to black diamond experts, crosscountry skiing, guided snowmobile tours, sleigh rides, tubing and snowshoe tours. Welcome and join us at gathering spots to enjoy hot cocoa and biscochitos after a thrilling day of winter adventure.

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 communities of Questa, Red River, Eagle Nest, Angel Fire, Taos, Taos Pueblo and the Taos Ski Valley to see beautiful views of sparkling valleys, ice-encrusted rivers and trees trimmed with snow during the winter months.

The members of the Taos County Chamber of Commerce include our local shops, banks, service providers, hotels, B&Bs, restaurants, galleries and museums, medical and legal professionals, town and county employees and individuals who 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 your small, independent businesses. Please visit our stores, galleries, restaurants and museums to ensure this unique community is here for generations to come!

Plans for a new kitchen or bath can be sourced at taoschamber.com with our member businesses. Projects large and small can be designed and outfitted with you by members of the Taos County Chamber of Commerce.

Are you planning an event in Taos or the Enchanted Circle for 2017? Come to the 2017 Taos Wedding Expo to plan your wedding, anniversary, family reunion, office party or any other event! The expo will be at El Monte Sagrado Living Resort & Spa on Feb. 25, 2017, from 10 am to 4 pm. Fantastic door prizes include a diamond ring and a honeymoon package. See what the venues and vendors in the Enchanted Circle have to offer. Plan everything here – from flowers to photographers, we have your event covered!

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

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 and visit our website at taoschamber.com for member events and current information.

Welcome and enjoy our wonderful Taos County!

Executive Director Taos County Chamber of Commerce

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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 2015 - 2016 REAL ESTATE ACTIVITY January 1, 2016 - December 27, 2016 2016 2015 % 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 198 $558,000 $110,000,000

210 328,000 69,000,000

212 308,000 65,000,000

-.01% .07% .07%

Current Residential Properties Average Listed Price Volume

62 78,000 4,900,000

70 70,000 7,900,000

-.15% .07% -.46%

Current Land Listings Average Listed Price Volume

2 394,000 788,000

5 345,000 1,725,000

-.60% .14% -.54%

Current Multi-Family Listing Average Listed Price Volume

6 $427,000 $2,560,000

6 336,000 2,000,000

17 475,000 8,000,000

- 1.10% -.32% -1.40%

Current Commercial Listings Average Listed Price Volume

35 $650,000 $22,800,000

402 $158,000 $63,445,000

RATES ARE GOING UP. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE RATES WHILE YOU STILL CAN Fixed Interest Rates Loan Amount Monthly Payment* $200,000 $964.00 30 year Fixed Rate 4.081% $200,000 $1,407.00 15 year Fixed Rate 3.262% 5 year Adj. Rate

3.179%

$200,000

$863.00

*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.

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Snow bear @ TSV

This luxury unit is furnished for comfort, warmth and style by a very hands on management team that takes care of all the details. Located slope side just below the day care center at TSV. Check out our fees and the rental history of this unit and compare. You will not be disappointed.

Unit is turnkey with great amenities, sweet views and income when you are not visiting yourself. Unit comes fully furnished. 1,000 sq ft. with 2 Bdrms & 2 Baths, 25” cathedral ceilings, river rock (gas) fireplace, travertine marble, Jacuzzi tub, European shower panels, open concept living. 3 separate entrances for more rental potential. On site washer & dryer, hot tub, storage, parking.

MLS# 92014

$299,900

Supremely el saltao

Located within the private community of the Huggett Estate is a stunning 5.39 acre parcel ready for your dream hacienda. Wonder through these well maintained country roads to this site and the end of a cul-du-sac, for maximum privacy. Walk through a pine and juniper forest onto large open areas with sweeping vistas of the entire Taos Valley. Visits to the quaint village of Arroyo Seco for morning coffee, lunch or dinner, are just minutes away. Call us to see why this is unique and not for the faint of heart. Property wired for high speed internet and electricity.

MLS # 95984

$579,000

Padilla trail

beautiful Des montes

Great community with upscale homes. Gently sloping hills feature spectacular views of mountains to the north and east. Only a short distance to the Rio Grande Gorge. Numerous hiking and horse trails in the area.

Pueblo adobe and territorial homes are featured in the community. A variety of building sites exist on this wonderful lot. Horses are allowed. A nice opportunity to build the home of your dreams.

Located off Hwy 230, close to the lovely town of Arroyo Seco & the world famous Taos Ski Valley, this stunning parcel is worth taking a look. This site has beautiful & unobstructed views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Plenty of options and no restrictions make this a nice investment parcel. Property irrigated for agricultural use, horses or farm environment. A really sweet piece and access couldn’t be easier! Build your dream home & barn for your horses! Call John for more information & to view this truly spectacular land in Des Montes.

MLS # 94437 MLS # 94438

Lot 2 Lot 4

12 + Acres 12 + Acres

Competitive Service

$144,000 $144,000

MLS # 96479 MLS # 95220

1.38 ac 2.77 ac

John & Lisa Cancro

$99,000 $199,000

Top of the world

Top of the World...Situated in the heart of El Salto this 5bed/3bath plus office & wine rm is the perfect family retreat. You will be mesmerized by the sound of the stream, the views of the mountains and the quietness of this neighborhood! The top floor holds the MS & office. The main floor with an open floor plan includes the living room, cook’s kitchen & large dining rm. These rooms all have maple flooring & large windows to capture the natural light & incredible views. The wrap around deck and balcony off the kitchen allows for easy entertaining. Property is beautifully landscaped with drip irrigation, running stream along border and private pond. 2 Car Garage, 2,979 Sq ft all on 2.94 acres. Call us today!

MLS# 97093

$879,000

In town gem

This little gem will surprise you. Well maintained inside and out this well constructed little abode is move-in ready. Set in a quiet spot the house sits off to one side of a large beautiful green field. Lots of room for another dwelling or a big agricultural greenhouse. The home has a fireplace and large windows in the living area, a country kitchen with open area, recently plastered walls, wood floors and bedroom with shared bath. Mud room too. There are 1400 sf of out buildings that needs a little love...but could be usable. This is worth a look. Call us for a tour.

MLS # 96764

$195,000

Compassionate Agents

THE TAOS NEWS

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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

Los Cordovas Riverfront Homes

New and beautiful - Rio Pueblo compound. Two homes 3bd/3ba and 3bd/2ba each 3200 sf. on 12 acres fronting the Rio Pueblo. The property includes water rights as well as a spring pond, 2 wells and 2 septic systems and both homes are set up for rainwater harvesting. High ceilings and two fireplaces grace the main house.

Tile floors with radiant heating keep it cozy in the winter. . The property is totally landscaped with drip irrigation. The guest home has two kitchen areas, an expansive studio as well as a spacious work shop. MLS# 96882 $1,495,000

Rental Duo - Two 3 bedroom/ 2 bath homes with strong rental histories for sale.

Located in Ranchos de Taos and situated on .92 acre with surface water rights.

Purchase both or take your choice of the two.

MLS#s 96901 and 96902 Listed for $115,000 and $85,000

New Listings Two 6.16 acre tracts in Upper Colonias for sale. Adjacent to Valencia Rd & running down to Seco Creek. Water rights & river frontage. Perfect for small organic farm or horse ranch. Tracts are 309’ wide & 1000+’ long and share a well. 360º views abound.

MLS# 98204/98205 $190,000.00

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 $148,500 12

Riverbend Subdivision 67+ acres /16 lots is for sale in it’s entirety. The lots are from 3.00 to 7.57 acres . The property has land line phone, electricity and five drilled wells.

MLS # 98856 $899,000 Owner/Broker

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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

Country Club Lot 63 3.00 acres on Baird Drive.

Still the lowest priced country club lot.

MLS# 81675 $79,000 Owner/Broker

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Town of Taos Commercial Space

8750sf two-story building with elevator, kitchen, & aDa-compliant restrooms on 2.09 acres with outstanding highway frontage . 40 parking spaces, half-court gym, multiple offices. Zoned C2.

MLS 99087

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$1,150,000

h

0

Blueberry Hill

Town of Taos

Town of Taos

3Br/3Ba/2448sf Pueblo-style home on 4.1289 ridgetop acres.

Priced under 2016 appraised value. Two master suites, beautifully appointed master baths, fantastic kitchen, glorious views.

2Br/3Ba/2300sf adobe built circa 1920, remodeled 2006, on 0.45 acres in the Taos Historic District. rich in character & style. outer courtyard & four interior courtyards.

3Br/2Ba/1750sf home of block construction on 0.17 acres in the historic district’s Sierra vista neighborhood. Charming midcentury construction, super location. Walk to Plaza!

MLS 99232

MLS 96952

MLS 98199

$550,000

$495,000

$275,000

ING LIST W E N

Tres Piedras

Ranchos de Taos

Ranchos de Taos

6Br/2Ba/2000sf frame & strawbale home on 1.25 acres has fantastic southern exposure, lots of windows, excellent passive solar gain, beautiful land, & pretty views.

3Br/2Ba/1771sf home with attached oversized 2-car garage on 1 acre. Warm honey-colored wood floors, cozy woodstove, lots of windows, lots of light, mega-mountain views.

Beautiful 1.773-acre plot of land in Taos valley ideal for gardening. Water rights, sweeping views, fencing. Shed & older 3Br/1.5Ba mobile home included.

MLS 96942

MLS 99390

MLS 98425

$110,000

$212,000

$105,000

Weimer

Weimer

Taos Ski Valley

2Br/2Ba/2054sf home on 0.987 acres w/ a truly greaT great room, workroom-studio, beautiful focal-point fireplace, & upscale finishes & fixtures. Ultra-convenient to medical services & town.

lovely 1-acre homesite nestled in the foothills. Water at lot, other utilities nearby. easy, sensible restrictions, great location, views in every direction.

2Br/2Ba/1072sf turnkey ski-in/ski-out condo is ideal not only for the buyer who loves to ski or snowboard but also for anyone looking for a mountain getaway. Hiking, fishing, fall color!

MLS 98476

MLS 99245

MLS 99253

$325,000

$69,900

ING LIST NEW

$350,000

ING LIST W E N

Cañon

Weimer

Peñasco

Mid-century adobe construction with 2Br/1Ba/1100sf, two wood-burning kiva fireplaces, large eat-in kitchen, viga ceilings, hand-carved doors, large workshop. on 0.23 acres.

3Br/3Ba/2489sf home with two master suites that are true suites, each with a study/den as well as a Br/Ba. lovely landscaping, tastefully & vibrantly painted interiors, sublime views.

2Br/2Ba/2020sf two-story territorial-style home pops with color. extra rooms include studio, dining room, & sunroom. excellent passive solar, detached garage, 0.96 acres.

MLS 99373

MLS 99243

MLS 99272

$195,000

$560,000

$178,000

Page Sullivan grouP 575.758.7890 Taosrealestate.com page@TaosHomePage.com

loTa realTY, inC. ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

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Lota ReaLty, Inc.

JUDY BUCK 575-758-8673 judy@cblotataos.com ON THE LITTLE RIO GRANDE

POT CREEK - This spectacular retreat on the river has many poss ibilities.

The property includes a main house with huge great room for entertaining plus 2 bedrooms/2 baths, a guest house with kitchen and 2 bedrooms, separate library/studio with bath and enormous garage for all your toys. This family compound is a grand getaway spot but could also be a lovely seminar or healing center. Nestled in the trees on a babbling trout-filled stream with privacy and charm yet only a few minutes from Taos and a short walk to the National Forest! CALL JUDY BUCK • MLS#98753 • $998,000

NAVIGATING COMPLEX ECONOMIC TIMES

MARIPOSA RANCH LUXURY LOT

DES MONTES – Gorgeous 10 acre view lot with intelligent building restrictions and a designated one acre building envelope to protect those views. Metered well with 4 shares.

One of the most prestigious areas of Taos with uninterrupted mountain and sunset views and easy access to both the village of Arroyo Seco and Taos Ski Valley. Build your dream home here!

CALL JUDY BUCK MLS#99302 • $199,000

View All Taos MLS Listings at www.cblotataos.com

DIMOND

MORTGAGE A CUT ABOVE THE REST

Corner of Paseo del Pueblo Norte & Civic Plaza Drive 800-829-8673

Horton falls in love, gets a puppy and has

foodies buzzing Vanessa Dimond

Andrew Horton, Common Fire chef de cuisin

Ted Dimond

The best source for home financing in New Mexico.

Donna Nelson

dimondmortgage.com 575.758.5566 524 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Suite H, Taos, New Mexico NMLS# 190187

taosmenus.com

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ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

Lota ReaLty, Inc.

JAN RADER, CRS, GRI 575-770-2012 jan@janrader.com

JanRader.com

neW

neW

RANCHOS DE TAOS

Sweet 2 BR/1 Bath home only steps from historic Ranchos Plaza!

Lots of potential, excellent starter home or rental property.

Easy to show, call for appointment.

MLS 99381 $110,000 caLL Jan!

TRES RITOS/SIPAPU

Spacious 3 BR/2 BATH cabin near Sipapu Ski Area. Offered fully furnished and equipped (includes snowmobiles); enjoy peace, privacy, hiking, fishing, skiing, snowmobiling. Wonderful gathering place for the extended family. MLS 99412 $299,000 caLL Jan!

D uce ReD

UPPER COLONIAS ADOBE

HOSPITAL AREA ADOBE

Spacious 3BR/3BA home in excellent northside neighborhood. Great floorplan, southwestern details throughout. Ideal second home, vacation rental or primary residence. Panoramic mountain views! Convenient to TSV and town. Move-in ready. Call for details and a showing.

MLS 98328 $475,000 caLL Jan!

Beautiful 3BR/2BA home on a fenced acre below the Talpa foothills... only minutes from the hospital. Convenient to town, peaceful, pastoral setting, nicely landscaped. Lovely southwestern details, immaculately maintained.

Great views. Bring the kids, dogs, and horses!

MLS 98829 $450,000 caLL Jan!

MARIPOSA RANCH DES MONTES Exceptional 14.4 acre lot in beautiful Mariposa Ranch with panoramic views! Utilities and shared well are in place, ready for your dream home. Intelligent covenants. Easy access to town and Taos Ski Valley.

MLS 99376 $229,000 caLL Jan!

TAOS COUNTRY CLUB COUNTRY CLUB Primo 3 acre lot on the 14th fairway at Taos Country Club.

Exceptional building site, utilities in place, paved access, panoramic views. Short walk to the clubhouse. Minutes from town, hiking, fishing, UNM. Reasonable covenants protect your investment.

MLS 98927 $137,000 caLL Jan!

View All Taos MLS Listings at www.janrader.com corner of Paseo del Pueblo norte & civic Plaza Drive 800-829-8673 ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

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Photo by Katharine Egli

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

Submit your photos today!

Call 758-2241 x113 or design1@taosnews.com for details.

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Peter A. Lora

225 Kit Carson Road

575-758-3275 peter@theloraco.com

www.realestatetaos.com

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. This fine home has also been an excellent vacation rental. $449,000 MLS # 99389 http://view.paradym.com/3076231

CHARMING SOUTHWESTERN - 2BR/2BA on 1 acre w/ fine views of Taos Mtn and desert sunsets. In-floor radiant heat + wood stove. Open floor plan, stained concrete floors. Refrigr, washer, dryer included. About 6 miles south of Taos center. Cute starter family home or perfect for downsizing couple! $195,000 MLS #98598 http://view.paradym.com/3854948

BEAUTIFUL 4BR ADOBE - Great floor plan in this 2,435 sq. ft. almost-new home. Wood-burning stove for cozy warmth, low energy bills. Covered patio w/ courtyard. Heated 2-car garage, plenty of storage space. Fine mtn views! $415,000 MLS #98149 http://view.paradym.com/3807410

HALF-ACRE LOT IN TOWN – Nice lot in nice neighborhood just 0.3 mile from Town center. R-4 zoning will accommodate 2 residences. Town water & sewer, electric, phone and natural gas utilities nearby in Santistevan Lane. Build your own, develop for sale, or hold as an investment! $74,000 MLS #99158 http://view.paradym.com/3906613

5BR/3BA HOME IN TOWN - Lots of Taos charm in this 3,159 sq. ft. home. Vibrant colors, 2 fireplaces upstairs deck. Terrific location near Taos Plaza on quiet street. ½-acre lot w/ gardens, trees, courtyard. Garage + workshop. Zoning would permit guest house or lot split. $560,000 MLS #98132 http://view.paradym.com/3807316

INCOME PROPERTY - Excellent 3-unit property about 5 miles south of Taos center. All three units are 1BR/1BA, 640 sq. ft. with natural gas space heaters, stack washer/dryer. Each apartment has a deck off second floor with wonderful valley & mountain views. Off-street parking. Well-maintained. Stable occupancy. $299,000 MLS #98471

DES MONTES HOME SITE - This 1.1-acre lot has fine views, irrigation rights, and an apple orchard.

Preferred location near village of Arroyo Seco, with easy access to Town and Taos Ski Valley. Beautiful land for a classic Taos home! $120,0 00 MLS # 97844 http://view.paradym.com/3740156

MULTIPLE POSSIBILITIES – on this lovely residential tract 0.6 mi south of Taos Plaza. 1.47 acres makes a rare single-family home site; or R-4 zoning would allow subdivision and development. Includes an existing 4BR home + large detached studio/ workshop. $400,000 MLS #96632 www.visualtour.com/show.asp?T=3577782

See All Taos MLS Listings At

Read our current Taos Real Estate Market Report with sales, price and inventory data, and prior year comparisons on our website realestatetaos.com

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Infinite Flooring Options P E R F E C T C H O I C E S TO R E F L E C T Y O U R P E R S O N A L TA S T E S

Making Beauty Our Business since 1988 at

Dan’sCarpets ...we’ve got you covered!

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Flooring Hardwood laminate Cork BamBoo tile area rUgS Carpet window CoveringS Ranchos de Taos 575-758-2420 www.danscarpetandfloors.com danscarpet@yahoo.com 7237 Hwy 518 Monday-Friday 8-5 Saturdays by Appointment

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HOME

WITH KELLIE HARRIS

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Down the hall and through the master bedroom, you find the master bathroom. No side space on this one – it looks and feels like a “room.” Sunlight disperses out of several skylights, highlighting soft tan adobe walls and a large vanity. There’s a hot tub, two-person shower with directional showerheads and an easy chair with a reading lamp. A large closet and dressing room sit just off the main floor, and the toilet is in a separate space, too.

The colors are earthy, comfortable, like the colors of the high desert landscapes in Taos. Bamboo flooring seems to warm the feet, and soft bathrobes hang nearby.

“This is where I start my day, I relax and get my thoughts together,” Harris said. “I wanted it to be spa-like, especially with the natural lighting. This is where I hang out – my sanctuary.”

Around the rest of the house, there’s plenty more work to do. The step-down living room in the back opens to a large backyard with two decks, a swimming pool, raised gardens and a 1,500-square

foot casita – filling out the 3-acre lot.

A bit of local history resides in the backyard: It was the set for a 1990 Dennis Hopper movie, “Backtrack,” which starred Taos’ Dean Stockwell, Jodie Foster, Fred Ward – and Bob Dylan with a chainsaw.

Harris’ next project is an outdoor kitchen, complete with gas stovetop, counter space and plumbing.

But, for now, Harris is content to settle and sit in her eclectic, multicultural home that fits nicely between the style of old Taos and the latest fashion. One of the best compliments she’s had is when Ken and Louise Blair came to visit and were happy to see how much of what they had built had been retained.

“I love my house, I truly do,” said Harris. “This could be the spot for me; this house suits me so well.

“And, of course, one by the beach,” she said with a laugh.

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2008

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g n i h t o o S Luxury

Some tips for a do-it-yourself bathroom remodel that can bring you joy

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Quick checklist

for bathroom DIY

remodel:

STEP 1 Select a bath design, measure space, set budget.

STEP 2 Order products, prepare home.

STEP 3 Install plumbing, surfaces,fixtures, cabinetry.

All remodels begin with

identifying your

personal style.

BY Y VO N N E PESQ U ER A

must stand up to water, soap, toothpaste, cosmetics and alcohol-base liquids.

We owe bathroom comfort to the ancient Romans. Those bath-loving people were the first to invent indoor plumbing – and humankind was inexorably changed. But if your bathroom hasn’t been updated since the Romans battled the Huns, you’re probably considering a remodel. Luckily, “do-ityourself” (DIY) information abounds.

Plumbing woes generally top the reasons for a remodel. If your toilet isn’t flushing well or if any faucet or pipe leaks, your bathroom is not only wasting water, but is heralding a more significant plumbing failure. Don’t wait for that to happen.

A change in your family or personal situation may highlight safety issues. For example, you may now have a toddler getting into your cabinets. Or perhaps you are elderly and want to design a bathroom that supports an ethos of “aging in place.”

Or you may want to invest in an update to your bathroom to enhance the overall value of your home. This article focuses on the basics for planning a DIY remodel project.

Bath Design

All remodels begin with identifying your personal style.

In Taos in particular, are you looking for a New Mexican style with Saltillo tiles? Or a classic, polished Italianate feel?

Territorial style? Modern/contemporary is also an available and compelling option.

Once you have selected an overall look and feel, measure the space for all practical intents and purposes. For example, you may dream of a double sink, but a single basin would be less of a sacrifice on available counter space.

By selecting a design and measuring your bathroom, this will inform your budget and the amount of time needed for the DIY remodel effort.

Surfaces

The broad expanse of your countertop draws in the eye and typically is the first thing your guests see. Marble, stone, ceramic tile, concrete and laminate tend to be the most common countertop surfaces due to their durability and ability to remain free of mildew. Some contemporary bath designs use metal and glass surfaces.

Cost will be your biggest driver, but so must be a thorough due diligence of each material’s cons. For example, you may have your heart and budget set on tile –– but did you know that fragile items dropped on a tile counter will most likely break?

That may not be the best choice if you have young children in the home. Stone is elegant and some varieties, such as granite, are easy to maintain. But the fact that stone is expensive and prices vary by region (due to shipping) is a well-known drawback in the bath design industry.

Whatever your choice, please keep in mind that countertops

Fixtures

Fixtures run the gamut from sinks and faucets to bathtubs to showers and showerheads to toilets. But let’s take a close look at faucets because, like countertops, these will be one of the first things your guests (and/or prospective home buyers) see and interact with.

Faucets have been described in catalogs as “sexy” and “chic.”

That’s a plumbing development even the ancient Romans would approve of! In relation to your chosen bath design, you will clearly want to select the faucets that are easiest to install.

Thankfully, plumbing design has advanced enough to give you a bevy of dramatic design statements. But still, you want to be super mindful that the faucet: • Is a perfect fit with the sink cut.

• Is easy to clean underneath the lip where the sink and counter seal together.

• Can be repaired if damaged (or must it be entirely replaced?).

Cabinetry

Sufficient storage is an ongoing quest for all. But the bathroom is particularly important, as most items stored there are highly personal. The vanity is the anchor of your bathroom design. On it rests your countertop surface and the sink faucet – which, as stated above, are the focal points of your bathroom. Plenty of stock options abound – from design to material – which goes a long way in the ease of a DIY bathroom remodel.

Your top consideration will be personal use. What do you need to store and how much of it? What do you need easy access to? For example, if this is your primary bathroom (versus a half bath), you may want a medicine cabinet for your grooming products and medicines. You’ll then have two options: recessed or wall mount. A recessed cabinet takes up less space and is considered ideal for that reason. However, if you have plumbing and wiring in the wall (which can be difficult and costly to remove), a wall-mounted cabinet above the sink may be your better choice.

Conclusion

In today’s information-driven world, you’ll have no problem finding detailed “how-to” books and videos online and in bookstores. But the one thing that can’t be bought is a mindset. If you decide to embark on a do-it-yourself bathroom remodel project, you are now your own general contractor – accountable to efficiency, to timelines and to budget. By seeing yourself in this professional light and acting on it, you can have a streamlined project that mitigates risks and provides you with a bathroom design remodel that you really love.

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WinTer/spring 2017

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CERRO

To Costilla & Colorado

El Norte

QUESTA

RED RIVER

SAN CRISTÓBAL

To Tres Piedras & Chama

ARROYO HONDO

ELIZABETHTOWN

TAOS SKI VALLEY

VALDEZ EL SALTO

HONDO MESA

EAGLE NEST

ARROYO SECO

Taos Pueblo

EL PRADO

Taos Municipal Airport

PA S E O

DEL P UE 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 UNM Taos

Taos Visitors Center

PA S

EO

STAKEOUT AREA

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To Pot Creek & Las Vegas

To Santa Fé & Albuquerque

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VALLE ESCONDIDO

D E L CAÑÓN RD

LLANO QUEMADO

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TAOS CANYON

ANGEL FIRE

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 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: $254,896

BLUEBERRY HILL An area of sagebrush mesas, which is a popular area for houses.

Average home sale price: $288,125

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: $337,265

ARROYO HONDO, HONDO MESA A village of old adobes and other dwellings along the Río Hondo, with a rolling high desert mesa stretching toward the Río Grande Gorge. Includes popular fishing spots, as well as the historic John Dunn Bridge.

Average home sale price: $240,481

ARROYO SECO, EL SALTO, DES MONTES Arroyo Seco is a picturesque village of galleries, shops and cafes, surrounded by the beautiful landscape and gorgeous views of the mountains. El Salto and Des Montes have rolling terrain with orchards and ranches.

Arroyo Seco average home sale price: $375,181 El Salto average home sale price: $415,600 Des Montes average home sale price: $399,358

TAOS SKI VALLEY, VALDEZ Taos Ski Valley is world renowned with both national and international clientele. Most of the businesses are open year-round 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: $410,666 TSV average condo sale price: $315,620 Valdez average home sale price: $236,633

TAOS CANYON, CAÑÓN This area is replete with hiking trails and campgrounds.

Picturesque views of the mountainsides and the Río Fernando combine to form a lush, green landscape.

Taos Canyon average home sale price: $167,777 Cañón average home sale price: $287,200

TAOS COUNTRY CLUB, STAKEOUT AREA 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: $342,444

RANCHOS DE TAOS, TALPA, LLANO QUEMADO 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.

Average home sale price: $199,684

WEIMER FOOTHILLS 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: $354,163

EL PRADO, RANCHITOS, CÓRDOVAS El Prado is comprised of meadows and ranch lands with small shops, cafes and other businesses along the highway. Ranchitos and Los Córdovas are similar but more residential. All have excellent views of Taos Mountain.

El Prado average home sale price: $256,666 Ranchitos average home sale price: $350,400 Los Córdovas average home sale price: $245,452

VALLE ESCONDIDO Nestled in the mountains only 20 minutes east of Taos, Valle Escondido offers spectacular views, USGA golf, stocked fishing lakes, swimming pool and playground and community social life at the historic log clubhouse, all enjoyed by full-and part-time homeowners, with community water and household trash removal included. Valle Escondido is surrounded by the Carson National Forest, offering year-round recreation: hiking, hunting, camping, mountain biking, ATV trails and winter sports.

A wide variety of homes can be found in Valle Escondido with an approximate starting price of $200,000.

ANGEL FIRE Cradled in the beautiful Moreno Valley, Angel Fire is a favorite destination for skiers in the winter and golfers, hikers and music lovers in the summer.

Average home sale price: $381,170

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.

Average home sale price: $310,350

QUESTA An agricultural 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: $176,375

Joel Schantz, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Taos Real Estate (www.BHHSTaosRealEstate.com), provided the information. DISCLAIMER: Statistics are based on MLS information for the period Jan. 1, 2014 through Dec. 31, 2014. Neither the REALTORS Association of New Mexico nor Taos County Association of REALTORS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy. Data is maintained by Taos County Association of REALTORS and may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.

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Your Taos Ski Valley Specialist!

www.tsvrealty.com Keith Dowell, Qualifying Broker (575) 776.0600 52

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“I always worked two or three jobs at a time,” Bachtel said during a recent interview at his office off Paseo del Cañón West in the professional office park he helped build in 2006. “But we made it work because we love what Taos and the people are all about.”

Real estate came to the Bachtels in 1990, which is when Nancy got her real estate licenses and Doug signed on with Joel Schantz and Realty World as a buyers’ broker. In 2001, Doug and Nancy opened ABI Real Estate Investments.

“After the buying spree in the 1990s, we saw that buyers need to sell, too,” he said. “So we became a full-service brokerage handling both ends of land, commercial and residential sales.

Plus, we saw all the investment potential out there for ourselves as the economy grew.”

During those heady days, ABI had six brokers and plenty of listings. Doug developed an expertise in land sales, and he worked with landowner Gary Goodman on what was to be Taos’ new commercial district on Paseo del Cañón East.

But, alas, the recession of 2008 arrived and the market dried up.

BY AND Y DEN N IS O N P HOTOGR APH Y B Y KATH AR IN E E G L I

O

ne quality you want in a Realtor is knowledge about the town in which he or she works, and Doug Bachtel knows about the Taos area.

His father came to Taos in 1951 and ran the propane company on Kit Carson Road (now New Mexico Propane) for years. Doug was born and raised in Taos, graduated from Taos High and, save for a stint in the Army and a couple of years in Colorado, has called Taos home since the beginning.

Skiing was his sport. He learned to ski at Sipapu, taught skiing at Taos Ski Valley (TSV) and even worked for TSV’s Gordon Briner in the late 1970s at Keystone in Colorado, where he met Nancy, his future wife and business partner. He recalls skiing off of Loveland Pass during a short stint working as a “miner” in the second bore of the Eisenhower Tunnel on Interstate 70. Also, he rode up Al’s Run on the early Poma lift at Taos Ski Valley.

Like many Taoseños, he’s had a bunch of jobs: route driver for Frito-Lay, manager of the Stakeout Restaurant, owner of a couple of car washes.

Their persistence and adaptability during the lean times has paid off as the Taos market continues to recover. By remaining open, the ABI name was always around and now most of their business comes from past referrals. The Bachtels like to maintain a small, yet solid base – somewhere around 12 ABI listings – to which they can give more individual attention than during the days of mass listings in Taos.

REALTOR PROFILE

DOUG BACHTEL

“If [I] had known then what I know now, we would have closed our doors and gone traveling in our RV,” Bachtel said. “But we didn’t. We stayed open, scraped by and just kept coming to work every day.”

And like any Realtor who is still around, the nature of the buying-and-selling game has changed. While it once was phone calls and walk-ins, now the internet and social media rule the roost, Bachtel said. But anything on the web is a “moving target” these days, he said.

So ABI turns more to the importance of the tried-and-true autonomous Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and focuses more on social media in its internet strategy.

“It all started with just Realtor.com,” Bachtel said. “Now there are 30-40 national sites, and we have to manage what goes to each site. It can be hard to figure out from one day to the next.”

Regardless of the changing real estate landscape, Bachtel brings his experience to ABI Real Estate Investments every day, as has been the case since 2001, and works with whatever the market is.

Doug Bachtel • Bachtel Real Estate Investments • 204 Bendix Drive (575) 758-5151 • www.abiTaos.com

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OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE NEW

BY DONNA NELSON

FINANCIALS 60

T

he last quarter of 2016 has proven to be a very of credit. It also impacts businesses since lower rates on borrowed monies make it less expensive to expand their business, hiring interesting end of year. more workers and purchasing power for more goods.

The election of Donald Trump as our 45th president It appears that refinance transactions will decrease, but home came as a surprise nomination for many people. As a buying should stay strong given positive economic indicators and result, markets reacted accordingly in a positive way the public’s willingness to purchase a home with the anticipation of for the stock market, but impacting mortgage further rate increases. rates negatively.

The positive news is that The Federal Housing Finance Agency will Rates have hit two-year highs. Investors pulled out of the bond raise conforming loan limits in 2017 for Fannie Mae- and Freddie market to invest in specific stocks: financial, health care and Mac-purchased loans in most of the country from $417,000 industrial. Optimism for growth and the anticipation of lower to $424,100 for a one-unit property. The baseline loan limit of income taxes spurred that. The market $417,000 was established in 2008 with bet on the new president for infrastructure the passage of The Housing and Economic THE ELECTION OF DONALD spending, tax cuts and the possible Recovery Act (HERA) as a result of declining deregulation of Wall Street, repealing the TRUMP AS OUR 45TH home values. HERA has maintained this Dodd-Frank Act, making it more attractive PRESIDENT CAME AS A limit until now since home prices have been for investors to sell off bonds and invest in SURPRISE NOMINATION rising nationally to the level of the third the stock market, resulting in increased longFOR MANY PEOPLE. AS A quarter of 2007. term interest rates.

RESULT, MARKETS REACTED In higher-cost areas, higher loan limits will The stock market and mortgage interest rates be in effect. The increase in conforming loan ACCORDINGLY IN A POSITIVE work in tandem. If the feds stop purchasing limits allows borrowers more purchasing WAY FOR THE STOCK MARKET, mortgage-backed securities and investors power as well as being able to apply for rally to stocks, we see an increase in rates.

BUT IMPACTING MORTGAGE conforming interest rate vs. jumbo rates, We experienced an increase of 0.750 RATES NEGATIVELY. which are higher and more costly. As an percent; quoting 3.5 percent on a 30-year example: The rate on a conforming loan fixed rate in November to the rate of 4.250 percent in amount of $417,000 would be 4.269 percent on a 30-year fixed December 2016. mortgage as opposed to 5 percent for jumbo. Rates are expected This rate increase was also in anticipation of the Federal Reserve to cap at 4.5 percent in 2017 with possible shifts in the market Bank raising the federal funds rate mid-December. This is the depending on economic factors. The new loan limits apply to case interest rate that impacts overnight bank-to-bank lending. Banks numbers assigned on or after Jan. 1, 2017. can borrow money from the Federal Reserve, but if rates are Donna Nelson has lived in and around the Taos area since 1987. She has been a higher, it makes credit more expensive. The federal funds rate mortgage professional for close to 20 years. Donna can be reached via email at affects the rates on consumer credit cards and home equity lines donna@dimondmortgage.com. She is always available to answer your questions.

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literally hundreds of patterns, we love working with our clients to come up with a design that is uniquely their own. That is another specialty we offer: unparalleled service in helping our clients love their selection.

What do you like most about the business?

The people we work with. We have met so many wonderful people over the years and have made many lasting friendships with our customers. We have lots of repeat customers and it is fun to catch up on things when we haven’t seen a person in a few years. And, of course, our merchandise. When we get shipments from Mexico, it’s like Christmas! So many new and different patterns and other totally unexpected items that are so unique. We recently got some turtles made out of rocks and they are adorable.

Are there several family members involved in the business?

Yes, Viviana is the one who mainly runs the store nowadays.

Christine comes in a day or two a week and Patricia is the bookkeeper. Viviana’s son, Anthony, is a regular, too, and he is an awesome installer as well. If his clients allow him to go off on his own, his installations have an artistic flair that is hard to define.

Tell us about what we will find in your showroom.

BY CIN D Y BROWN PHOTOGRA P Y B Y KAT H A R I N E E G L I How did Vargas Tile come to be established?

Vargas Tile Company was founded by our parents, Roberts and Martha Vargas, in 1961. Our dad was a woodworker and opened up a cabinet shop at the original location at 340 Paseo del Pueblo Sur. One thing led to another and pretty soon Vargas Paint Pot was open for business. Over the years, we sold carpet, furniture, draperies, art supplies, wallpaper and, of course, tile. We became simply Vargas Company about 1977.

What are the major changes in the business since its founding?

The biggest change would be that we sold our paint store in 2006.

The paint and tile have been our mainstay over all the years. We had toyed with the idea of selling either one or the other and finally decided it would be the paint. People still call or stop by and ask paint-related advice from us on a daily basis. We are always happy to share what we’ve learned over the years.

What is the specialty of Vargas Tile?

Our specialty is the “Saltillo” and “Talavera” tile that we keep in stock. Currently, we are well stocked on both. New patterns and colors come in all the time and so do other items, like mirrors, sinks, murals, etc. We are also well stocked on all the accompanying trim pieces. Although it is difficult to stock everything when there are

Any advice for people considering tile for a remodel or new house?

Have an idea of what you have in mind, be it a color or a style or even a piece of artwork that you would like to showcase. Oftentimes, people will come in and have no idea what they are looking for and get overwhelmed with the selection. We advise people to look through magazines or books or online and find something that appeals to them and we can work from there. A starting point is very, very helpful and makes the whole process run much more smoothly.

We also encourage our customers to check out samples and take them home to make sure that they will work with everything else in the room. Colors look very different in different lights, so it is vital to see what a tile will look like in your house – with your colors and in your light.

9 QUESTIONS

CHRISTINE AND VIVIANA OF VARGAS TILE

An amazing array of patterns and colors and selection. We have many samples of floor and wall tile that we can order out of Albuquerque. We have sources that offer beautiful manufactured tiles in ceramic and porcelain. We are not limited to Mexican tile by any means. We have access to many lines of Italian tile, as well as natural stone and glass and the popular wood-look porcelain tiles.

What is the best way to care for the tile on your floor?

Different floors require different methods of care. This is a loaded question and there are so many variables that it’s best to call and ask us because we could write a book on different ways to maintain different floors. Not very fun subject matter, but very important!

What trends are you noticing in tile?

Everything is gray and big! The new look is bigger and bigger tiles in a rectangular shape. And it’s beautiful, but trendy. We’ve seen styles come and go and we have to be careful not to date ourselves. Being that Taos style is different and unique, we advise people to stay with the traditional styles and colors of our beautiful Southwest, especially if the house is or will be for resale. Of course, Saltillo and Talavera are not for everyone, so we do have the manufactured tile available as well.

Vargas Tile • 4114 State Road 68, Ranchos de Taos • (575) 758-5986 www.vargastile.com

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MARKETSHARE

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KITCHEN & BATH

hen folks talk about homes, they generally describe them first by the number of bedrooms, usually followed by the number of baths – but not necessarily. So if someone asked what kind of house you were looking for, most would say a two-bedroom building or whatever the number was for spaces for sleeping. It does give one a sense of size in the structure.

I know of no one who says, “We are looking for a house with a kitchen and a bath,” yet those rooms are the ones where one can really be creative and it can get expensive. Bedrooms and living spaces, for the most part, are a function of interior design and decorating.

One can spend almost an unlimited amount of money on a kitchen.

Top-of-the-line appliances can cost as much as a car – sometimes a luxury car – and there are so many fixtures and options to choose from.

A fellow named Max Edelman, now of Santa Fe, built many upperend homes here. He was known for his kitchens – and for a good reason. He could build one that looked great, had fine finishes and just sent positive messages.

Kitchens, in many cultures, are the soul of a home. That is where the love is, where the preparation goes on, where the family gathers. I know that over the years of our marriage, no matter how many times we’ve created spaces for eating and drinking outside what was then our kitchen, folks still found that counter close to the oven and still wanted to be near the food. We’ve given up trying to alter or control human behavior, especially when it makes so much sense.

Personally, in today’s Taos, I can live without a dining room. A kitchen that is ample enough to house our extended family is good enough.

It also makes moving food from oven or counter to table easier.

Having said that, friends of ours who live in Weimer have an eye-level fireplace in their dining room, and I find that enchanting. But know that I am an admitted firebug who loves it wherever I can get it. (I note

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BY HARVEY BLAUSTEIN

in passing that the house with this warm and wonderful dining room is available for sale. Just give me a call. But I digress.)

I suppose the space that I have seen the most creativity, or the most outof-the-box ideas, is in bathrooms. We’re not talking indoor outhouses, but really big spaces that serve many purposes besides the basic human needs one expects. We have friends who have an old fireplace in their bathroom, as it was in an adjoining space when they blew it up. I love that idea and know that I would light a fire for my honey whenever she wanted a bath. But face it, folks, most don’t want to haul wood to a bathroom and deal with the after-fire cleanup. So scratch that idea.

I have seen bathrooms that are exercise rooms, those that offer grand dressing spaces, hot tubs, steam baths, bidets and, of course, multiple sinks. All of that has been around. We had a steam shower when we lived in Jersey that I found worth every penny, but you do have to have the space to begin with.

Bathroom fixtures can be costly – not kitchen costly, but think golden toilet and go up or down from there.

Kitchens and bathrooms do distinguish themselves, in the main, by the cost of furnishing one once we get past appliances and fixtures. I have yet to see a bathroom tricked out like an eating room, where table and chairs can be very costly – not that they have to be.

One can always cut back on costs on bedrooms and living rooms. After high-end flooring, vigas and kiva fireplaces, there isn’t a whole heck of a lot one can do to increase the cost of constructing those rooms. One can spend unlimited funds on the personal property one brings in, but those can go back out with you at the end of your time with the house. What you do in your bath and your kitchen will likely stay and affect how easily you sell, so do think ahead. Put a smile on your face, but be aware it could turn to a frown down the road if you steer too far off the main road. Even in Taos.

Harvey Blaustein is a retired attorney and local real estate broker.

603 Camino da la Placita Taos, NM 87571 575-737-5678 hblau4@gmail.com www.taospremierproperties.com

an Important commercIal corner…

If you do business with locals and are looking for the perfect location we proudly offer the very prominent corner of Salazar and Ranchitos Roads. This is one of the most desirable commercial locations in town, which most residents drive by daily. It consists of .64 acres and is zoned CBD with more land possible.

Owner/Broker $329,000 mls99026

hIstorIc In toWn adoBe… We proudly offer the for-

mer home and studio of famous early 20th century artist, Oscar Berninghaus, listed in the National Historic Registry. Set on .48 acres, this splendid adobe of some 4,000 sq. ft. has been remodeled but one can still feel the artist in residence. $899,000 mls 96139

aFFordaBle In toWn Free standIng condos… In town, and just two blocks from the Albertson’s Shopping

Center, we proudly offer two homes, one a 1/1 and the other a 2/1, in a condominium ownership arrangement. Each home has an open floor plan and a sun room, each has private areas, fenced spaces and designated parking areas. Come see housing you can afford – and will want to live in. Starting at $175,000 mls #95729

lIVe on top oF oUr World... For those who have the freedom of choice, most choose to live in the Cañon foothills, east of town.

We proudly offer 3 of the finest lots in the area, all unique and different, all with sweeping views that will take your breath away – and make it hard to choose. Sized at 3.77, 8.79 and 18.81, you will feel like you are in a candy store, finding it difficult to decide. $165,000 mls 98193

“I am a strategIc thInker, pay attentIon to detaIls, and get thIngs done.”

Harvey Blaustein, Qualifying Broker

premIUm r-4 sIte near the plaZa…

The most important phrase in our residential real estate market is “in walking distance to the plaza” because that is what most folks want when they look for a home here. For those that want to meet this need, we proudly offer a 4.25 acre site, the largest undeveloped R-4 location close to the plaza in town, between Salazar and Santistevan Roads, with frontage on Ranchitos, and access off Santistevan.

Owner/broker $399,000 mls #99029 ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

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