Enchanted Homes Mountain Living 116 by The Taos News

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

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

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

Welcome from the Taos County Chamber of Commerce

¡BIENVENIDOS! Living in the space between the heights of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the depths of the Río Grande Gorge provides Taoseños and all of us living around the Enchanted Circle unlimited opportunities to explore by foot or bike or raft or car! Every day supplies fresh air and energy to discover something new in our mountain communities. 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 Taos Ski Valley to see beautiful views of the mountains and unending views to the western horizon. The members of the Taos County Chamber of Commerce include our local shops, banks, service providers, hotels, bed-and-breakfast establishments, restaurants, galleries and museums, as well as medical and legal professionals. Town and county employees and individuals all work together to “Keep Taos Local.” The chamber supports these efforts with the “Keep Taos Local, put your money where your heart is!” campaign that encompasses and expands on the national efforts to be mindful of small, independent businesses. Please visit our stores, galleries, restaurants and museums to ensure this unique community is here for generations to come! 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. Please 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 ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

THE TAOS NEWS

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXV

Martin Molz

they converted Dowell’s brokerage into a new partnership with Engel & Völkers. Their office is located at 105 Paseo del Pueblo Norte and they also have an office at Taos Ski Valley on Ernie Blake Road. “I really enjoy working from both of our offices, whether in town or up at the ski valley,” he says. Engel & Völkers is a European-based real estate company founded in 1977. The company has a presence in more than 800 locations in 33 countries employing 8,000 agents, making it the largest European brokerage. It has been expanding in North America, focused on second home markets in resort areas and, more recently, in large cities. Molz says, “Europeans recognize the historical connections between this area and Europe and value the interesting cultural and environmental reasons to be here. I think we all agree that Taos is a very special place appreciated by those that come and feel it.” He sees ownership changes at Taos Ski Valley and the airport development as a boon for the real estate market in Taos. He enjoys listening to his clients and helping them find a home that meets their needs and also gets them excited. “I have been working with some clients throughout this spring, both of whom work from home, so they had some criteria with regard to space that was important to them. But, they didn’t want their home to be all about work; they wanted to wake up loving where they lived. It took some time, and there were a few bumps along the way, but we just found them a fantastic home down by the golf course that met almost every want and need. They immediately struck a deal and it was a delight to see.” When asked about trends in real estate, Molz points to the recovery of the market and says that the real estate sector on both coasts has been going like gangbusters over the last 18 to 24 months. He says that the anticipation of rising interest rates, a low national unemployment rate and the wealth effect that has been generated with rising asset values on the coasts and in the stock market are already starting to impact the market here. “Domestic and international buyers alike are looking for ways to invest in interesting and unique places. And then there are those that simply fall in love with Taos, and we see many of them peering at our clients’ properties for sale through our shop window,” he says. Molz and Dowell are focused primarily on residential real estate, but can handle any type of transaction. They focus on finding buyers for homes represented by other brokers, too. “It is about finding what is right for our client – regardless,” says Molz.

Engel & Völkers by Cindy Brown photo by Katharine Egli

REALTOR PROFILE

Martin Molz first came to Taos when he was invited to ski with his wife’s family 24 years ago. He says, “Growing up in the mid-Atlantic area of the East Coast, I found Taos to be unlike any place I had been before. The open spaces felt odd to me at first, but over time, I came to really appreciate being in such spaces – alone, but out in the open.” Molz has lived and worked all over the world, but was drawn to Taos. He had the opportunity to invest in Taos real estate 12 years ago and then bought a house in Arroyo Seco. He enjoys skiing and hiking with his family. “My in-laws live in Taos, so it works well for all of us,” he explains. Now, Molz shares his love of Taos with others who want to come here. He points out that Taos is comprised of interesting people from all kinds of backgrounds and that no two houses are alike. “Folks are always experimenting with creative construction techniques and many are focused on sustainability and efficiency in building,” he says. Molz joined forces with Keith Dowell of Taos Ski Valley Realty. Last year, 12

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

Engel & Völkers has a global network that works well for clients. Within a day of listing some new homes here, the homes were displayed at other offices in Texas, Louisiana, California, Colorado and New York; places that are “feeder markets” for Taos. “Our colleagues who run shops in those locations were sending me pictures of my clients’ listings displayed in their shop windows – Tune Drive on display on Park Avenue in Manhattan,” says Molz. His Taos office also displays listings for other locations. “People love sitting on the sofa in our shop watching Engel & Völkers listings scroll on the big screen,” he adds. Current listings include land parcels in Arroyo Hondo, a custom energyefficient home in Las Colonias and luxury condos in Taos Ski Valley. As summer comes to a close, Molz is looking forward to fall and winter. “I live in Arroyo Seco and love the seasonal move into autumn; the cool nights and changing color of the aspens are a definitive indicators that ski season is not far off.” Molz and Dowell are grateful for the support that they have received from the community and want to continue to help buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals. “We think we can bring a new approach to real estate and based on the developments in the market, we believe this area is on the front end of considerable growth. By being part of the Engel & Völkers family, we have the infrastructure and support required to help our clients benefit from that growth and bring a new set of potential buyers to the market.” For more information, visit taos.evusa.com email martin.molz@evusa.com call 575 779 2572 or text TAOS to 21000.

Founded here and focused here– we understand Taos. We make loans on land, mortgages, new construction, earthships, renovation, alternative energy, commercial property, our community’s businesses, and more...

Let’s Dream Together! BEST BANK

EQUAL HOUSING

LENDER

758-6700

www.centinelbank.com EQUAL HOUSING

LENDER

photo by Kirsten Jacobsen

NM CID License #380382 Bonded, & Insured

TRADESMEN Builders

“Making Your Dream Home A Reality”

New Construction

Jaysen Clark, Owner

Remodeling & Additions

Improvements & Repairs

(575)758-2458 ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

www.tradesmenbuild.com ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

Taos Ski Valley Realty is now

99855 - 13 Buena Vista $685.000 Gorgeous two-story 3,400 sq ft home with four bedrooms and three bathrooms in desirable Upper Las Colonias location. The 1,300 sq ft great room offers incredible mountain views and access to walled garden area as well as an open-plan kitchen, dining area, and two living areas - one with a kiva fireplace – which makes it perfect for socializing with friends or a cozy night in with the family.

99857 - 143 Tune Drive $775,000

One-of-a-kind property - a must see! This meticulously designed 3,200 sq ft home with three bedrooms and two bathrooms was built by a husband and wife architectural team in 2007 offers sweeping mountain views, 3,000 sq ft of xeriscaped outdoor living area and combines the best of passive solar and lowcost, efficient technology without sacrificing modern conveniences.

We are pleased to announce that Taos Ski Valley Realty is now Engel & Völkers Taos Real Estate. In addition to our Taos Ski Valley office, we recently opened a brand new shop at 105 Paseo del Pueblo Norte - just off Taos Plaza. Founded in 1977, Engel & Völkers is a European-based real estate company that has shops in over 780 locations in 33 countries around the world and employs over 8,000 agents. The firm has been expanding rapidly in North America over the last 10 years initially focusing in second-home markets in beach and ski resorts, and more recently in larger markets such as Atlanta, Austin, Boston, New York City, and San Francisco, to name a few. To date, shops in US ski destinations can be found in Aspen, Bozeman, Eden, Lake Tahoe, Okemo-Woodstock, Park City, Sun Valley, Truckee and Vail. And now in Taos! Please stop by and see us. We would love to see how we can help you achieve your real estate goals.

Engel & Völkers Taos Real Estate 105 Paseo del Pueblo Norte · Taos· NM 87571 · USA· Phone +1-575-776-0600 • Text TAOS to 21000 www.taos.evusa.com © 2017 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Engel & Völkers and its independent franchisees are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act. Each property shop is independently owned and operated. All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. If your property is currently represented by a real estate broker, this is not an attempt to solicit your listing.

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

Taos Ski Valley Realty is now

LUXURIOUS CONDO’s at the ST. MORITZ!

SNAKEDANCE CONDOMINIUMS

WORLD CLASS LOCATION just 2 minutes from the slopes; maybe even closer. Quality Construction, Beautiful Architecture, Scenic views, AND LOW HOA DUES make this project very attractive. All Units feature Granite Counters, Kitchen Aid Stainless Appliances, Patio’s & Balconies, & Gas Fireplaces. Take advantage of locker room on ground floor and your own ski closet! These condo’s are the best value in Taos Ski Valley! MLS# 99428 .......Unit 101 ...........$384,000 ..................1BR MLS# 99431 .......Unit 302 ...........$482,000...................1BR MLS# 99431 .......Unit 302 ...........$482,000 ..................2BR MLS# 99429 .......Unit 402 ...........$438,900...................1BR

LOTS IN TAOS SKI VALLEY

MLS # 95878..................$325,000................ .90 acres MLS # 95643..................$279,000.............. 1.14 acres MLS # 92140..................$159,000................ 1.8 acres MLS # 99557..................$279,000................. .46 acre

Elegant ski-in/ski-out condominiums, steps from the slopes. Granite countertops, 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 a proven record and aggressive promotion make these condos convenient and a great investment.

MLS# 99472...Unit 309....$399,000....2BR/2BA MLS# 99471...Unit 406....$525,000....3BR/3BA MLS# 89854...Unit 402....$525,000....3BR/3BA MLS# 99481...Unit 305....$339,000....1BR/1BA

SKI IN, SKI OUT CONDOMINIUM

Excellent ski in, ski out condominium in the heart of Taos Ski Valley, priced to sell. Top floor unit with no one above! Conveniently located unit; close to the Hot Tub, Laundry & Office, but not too close. Top floor has vaulted ceilings with attractive wood beams. Warm living room with fireplace makes for a great place to relax after a day on the slopes. User friendly kitchen with bar. Easy access to all TSV amenities and children’s school. Outstanding views, reasonable HOA dues, and good rental history. On-site management of nightly/ weekly/monthly rentals. Unit comes almost completely furnished!!

MLS # 99357.......Unit 7.........$279,000.........2BR/2BA

SNOW BEAR CONDOMINIUMS

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 and see our VALUE!

MLS # 99289.......Unit C2.......$179,000.........2BR/2BA MLS # 99495.......Unit C3.......$189,000.........2BR/2BA

EDELWEISS LODGE AND SPA TAOS SKI VALLEY’S PREMIER SKI-IN/SKI-OUT CONDOMINIUMS Only one luxurious 2BR Unit is available. Turnkey 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 café, bar, and restaurant. Solid HOA with healthy capital reserve.

MLS# 93775...Unit 409.......$595,000.........2BR/2BA MLS# 98955...Unit 409... $1,050,000.........3BR/3BA MLS 99285 ... Unit 214...... $420,000........ 1BR/1BA

LAKE FORK CONDOMINIUMS

ELEGANT HOME IN TAOS

Upscale SKI IN SKI OUT Condo! Great Views of the RIVER & SLOPES. River sound is magical. Great floor plan, Affordable dues, Brand NEW Roof, Jacuzzi Bath Tub, Wood Stove, Steam Shower, COVERED PARKING! Good rental history. MLS # 97126 ....... Unit 9....... $479,000......... 2BR & 2BA MLS # 99427 ....... Unit 5....... $529,000......... 2BR & 2BA

Upscale Remodeled home that is literally, JUST LIKE BRAND NEW! Comes with a FULL 1 Year Warranty!! Taos Mountain Builders, has replaced EVERYTHING in an EXTENSIVE Remodel! All plumbing, electrical, mechanical, fixtures, roof, windows, etc., are NEW! Featuring; Granite Counter Tops, Stainless , Whirlpool, Appliances, Custom Carpentry & Much Much More!

MLS # 97900 ................ $334,900 ................... 3BR / 2BA

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ANDREA FROST

FEATURED LISTINGS TRES PIEDRAS LAND U RED

QUESTA CABIN

CED

MLS: 99677 10.5 acres $29,900

STAKEOUT AREA

MLS: 99698 .6 of acre $70,000 RIVER FRONTAGE!

HAS A WELL! BLUEBERRY HILL PARCEL

MLS: 99929 3 acres $79,000 SEE FOREVER!

CARSON ACREAGE

CHARMING CONDO

MLS: 99556 33.68 acres $30,000

MLS: 96572 2.90 acres $89,000

MLS: 99827 $230,000

CONVENIENT LOCATION

ROOM ROOM TO TO ROAM! ROAM!

GREAT VIEWS!

575-770-2060 cblotataos.com

andee@taosnet.com LOTA REALTY, INC.

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

Quality, Compassion, Transparency, and Sustainability

THE PERFECT LOCATION UPPER COLONIAS–

This spacious home has 3 bdr, 2 ba, plus a large family room w/kiva fireplace and a gracious sunken living room with views framing Taos Mountain. Two walled and landscaped patios provide additional views and extended living space. The large master suite w/kiva is a relaxing oasis w/ additional bedrooms on the opposite side. Saltillo tile & wood floors throughout create a traditional Taos ambiance. This is the perfect vacation rental/getaway home or a great family home with room for all the kids and grandkids! In a most desirable residential neighborhood with easy access to Taos Ski Valley and town and close to several fabulous restaurants. It’s fully furnished and equipped plus a hot tub! CALL JUDY $495,000 MLS #99706

MOVE RIGHT IN CLOSE TO SOUTHSIDE SPA –

Brand new and extremely well built and designed condo with 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, spacious full kitchen with granite countertops, stainless appliances and custom hickory cabinets. The floors are hickory throughout with lovely southwest touches, large fireplace in the living room, stacked washer & dryer plus large walled patio. The views of the Truchas Peaks and the mountains to the north are outstanding. Additional locked storage in the carport with on-demand radiant heating system for maximum energy efficiency. All the bells and whistles--it’s a perfect gem! CALL JUDY BUCK $275,000 MLS #100169 View All Taos MLS Listings at www.cblotataos.com 18

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

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

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

MAGEE BUILD, INC. Aaron Magee

A premier builder in Taos since 2004

575.741.0456

mageebuild.com

mageebuild@taosnet.com

LOTA REALTY, INC.

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

JanRader.com

D UCE RED

TRES RITOS/SIPAPU

Spacious 2 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 $289,000 CALL JAN!

RIVERFRONT HOME IN SIPAPU

Lovely 2 BR/2.5 BA home near Sipapu Ski and Summer Resort. It is spacious, energy efficient, immaculately maintained. Over 300’ of river frontage, lot borders national forest. Fishing, skiing, hiking within steps. Way too many special features to list, please call for details & a showing! MLS 99759 $389,000 CALL JAN! D UCE RED

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!

TOWN OF TAOS Sweet artist’s home on oversized lot west of Taos Plaza. Walk everywhere from this lovingly maintained 3BR/1BA home with lots of studio space. Ideal for full time or vacation living. Come take a look! MLS 99575 $280,000 CALL JAN!

HONDO MESA Stunning 5 acre home site on the Hondo Mesa with great mountain views. Close to rafting, swimming, fishing, rock climbing. Enjoy peace & quiet only minutes from town & Taos Ski Valley. Horses allowed! MLS 99810 $80,000 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

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

Franchesca Zoppe of CFT Décor & Gifts

by Andy Dennison photo by Katharine Egli Franchesca Zoppe took over ownership of Country Furnishings of Taos on July 1, 2016. She has changed the name to CFT Décor & Gifts and, since then, has put her personal imprint onto a store that been around since 1986. Enchanted Homes recently sat down with her to ask her about her first year in business. How’s your first year been? Very good. It’s a challenging retail climate for all Taos stores, but the second quarter traditionally provides an uptick in sales with all the summer events and the arrival of part-time residents.. What do you think you’ve brought to the store? Primarily, I want to bring more color to the homes in Taos. Outside, it’s a desert climate with muted colors. So we carry items like pillows and furnishing with strong, bright, sparkly stuff that make the inside of a home colorful. I changed the name, too, so that people wouldn’t think we are a furniture store. We’re not, and I wanted them to know we sell décor and gifts, too. How would you describe the character of CFT? Eclectic with a whimsy to it. The breadth of products is from juried local artists to manufactured napkins – and everything in between. We carry a broad spectrum of merchandise so that we can be a one-stop shop for the homeowner and the gift buyer.

9 QUESTIONS

Who are your customers? Mostly 40 or older, a lot of part-timers in Taos who are here from June through the end of the year. It’s people who want to decorate their homes, but are looking for something a little different.

You’ve talked about providing a “customer experience.” Explain that a bit. Sure. We want our customers to feel comfortable just browsing. We have so much in the store that it takes a while to see it all. Our staff is friendly without any hard sell. We are there to answer questions and help out finding something. We like to chat with our returning customers to find out what they liked, show them what’s new and listen to their opinions. Also, we know our products so that we can help mix and match for a certain design. Where do you find all these products? Thanks to the previous owner, we have a strong relationship with local artisans, who provide much of what we have. We are continually adding artisans and artists who have a different look ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

or type of art. Our emphasis is still in the Southwest genre, and we carefully select our distributors outside of Taos, too. Any new sales strategies? Yes, we started [a] gift registry, something that stores like us don’t do. A wedding party can register with us and indicate what they would like to receive. They can even post a video of pertinent gifts. Guests can view those items through our website or with a click-through on our Taos News digital ad. It links the giver and the recipient. This is your first foray into retail. What have you learned? I was in sales and marketing in the high-tech world out in San Jose, California, and I found that high-tech sales is similar to retail. It’s important to focus on your merchandise, to know your customer base, to listen to and understand the “voice of the customers” and to know what they are looking for. What’s your objective with CFT Décor & Gifts in the future? I bought the store for its ambience, and I won’t change that. I just want to keep trying out new items, adding to the breadth of our product lines. I have a great staff that stayed with me after Mary Shriver sold the business to me. They understand the store and its customers – and help me move into the future with purpose and confidence. CFT Décor & Gifts | 534 Paseo del Pueblo Norte 575 758 4633 | cftaos.com

Peter A. Lora

225 Kit Carson Road

575-758-3275 peter@theloraco.com

www.realestatetaos.com

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

CHARMING CONDO - Sweet 1-BR/1-BA just a few blocks north of the Plaza. Walk to everything in heart of Taos. Common area hot tub, laundry. Reasonable monthly HOA fee. Completely renovated and nicely furnished. $149,000 MLS #100161 http://view.paradym.com/4032644

4 ACRES WITH WATER RIGHTS - Fine lot with quality surroundings, underground utilities, sensible restrictions. Privacy, peace and quiet, beautiful views of sunsets & mountains. Shared well. Surface water rights for irrigating the land for agriculture, horses. In desirable Des Montes area, near charming village of Arroyo Seco, just 15 minutes from Taos, 25 minutes from Taos Ski Valley. $275,000 MLS #100317 http://view.view.paradym.com/4046416

HALF-ACRE LOT IN TOWN – Nice lot in nice neighborhood just 0.3 mile from Town center. Zoning would allow lot split for two residences. Town water & sewer, natural gas, electric and phone nearby. Build your own, develop for sale, or hold for investment. $74,000 MLS #99158 http://view.paradym.com/3906613

INCOME PROPERTY – Excellent 3-unit property about 5 miles south of Taos center. All three units are 1BR/1BA, 640 sq. ft. with washer/dryer, deck with wonderful views. Well-maintained. Stable occupancy. $250,000 MLS # 98471 http://view.paradym.com/3835972

CLOSE TO PLAZA - Delightful 2-bedroom/1.5-bath condo walking distance to shops, galleries, restaurants, museums, etc. Lots of outdoor living space, off-street parking. There are just two free-standing units in this association, and the monthly HOA fee is zero. Large yard. Fully furnished and ready to enjoy and/or rent! $235,000 MLS # 99812 http://view.paradym.com/4006654

See All Taos MLS Listings At

DES MONTES HOME SITE - This 1.1-acre lot has fine views, irrigation rights and an apple orchard. Preferred location near charming village of Arroyo Seco, with easy access to Town and Ski Valley. Beautiful land for a classic Taos home! $110,000 MLS # 97844 http://view.paradym.com/3740156

www.realestatetaos.com ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXV

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

E ENNCCHHAANNTTEEDD HHOOMMEESS VVOO LL .. CC XX IVI II

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXV

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXV

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

Joel K Schantz, Qualifying Broker CRB Yvonne Lewis, Assistant to Broker JoelsTaosRealEstate.com jschantz@newmex.com 575-758-1924 â&#x20AC;˘ 800-530-8899

BHHSTaosRealEstate.com A FORESTED SANCTUARY - Mountain living on 10 acres in Turley Mill with endless outdoor opportunities. Luscious landscaping, gravel pathways, bocce ball court, putting green, outdoor lap pool, hot tub, picturesque sitting areasâ&#x20AC;Śescape to your personal retreat. Built in 1987 this Pueblo style home welcomes in true Taos style. The interior is spacious and light filled. A master wing with his & her bathroom and adjoining exercise room with outdoor pool access. Two large guest bedroom suites with kiva fireplace, individual bathroom and outdoor patio. Living room opens onto patio. Dining, kitchen and breakfast area provide the perfect space. Split floor plan and upstairs office with deck. Attached heated 2 car garage. Detached small rustic cabin. Live your dream! Listed at $1,200,000 MLS 100291 ÂŠ2017 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.ÂŽ Equal Housing Opportunity.

#1 Real Estate Company in Taos 575-758-1924 314A Paseo del Pueblo Norte Taos, New Mexico 87571 Joel K. Schantz, Qualifying Broker

National Home Prices compared to Taos County MLS Single Family Average Prices (excluding Angel Fire, Red River, Chama, Black Lake, etc)

150,000 100,000 50,000

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

2008

2007

2003

2002

2001

1998

ÂŠ2017 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.ÂŽ Equal Housing Opportunity.

327,949

317,600

305,748

314,367

283,051

266,000

320,000

277,000

356,494

410,099

356,494

2006

335,000

350,255

2005

298,222

2004

218,490

257,518

216,637

2000

196,407

200,000

1999

250,000

185,232

300,000

230,150

350,000

179,613

(Harvard University State of the Nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Economy Housing Report 2017)

400,000

1997

By the end of 2016, national home prices reached their pre-recession peak in nominal terms, according to most major measures of home prices. While nominal prices were at or above peak in nearly half of all metros, real prices had not recovered either nationally or in most of the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s metros.

450,000

1996

Price Change Since Peak (%) Above Peak (Up to 58) 0-15 Below Peak 16-25 Below Peak Less than 26 Below Peak (Down to -56)

384,494

* Taos County is noted as Dk Blue in National Chart * Taos County is still 25% below the market high of 2008 * Taos County has rebounded 23% from the market low of 2012 * Average Sales Price is $327,949 * Median Sales Price is $309,000 * Chart below shows the Average Sales Price of a Single family home since 1996

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

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

Rachel Singer Associate Broker 575-613-3027 rachels@taosnet.com

Kiva Harris

Associate Broker

Experienced Broker for Buyers & Sellers Longtime Taos Resident Property Management

314A Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571 ! ! # #

BEAUTIFUL LAND! WIDE OPEN SPACES

PRICE REDUCED

Big 360 degree views from this affordable 8 acre lot. Wide open space within easy walking distance to the Wild & Scenic Rivers area, which lies in the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument. Additional acreage available. 17,000 MLS 100207

Wide open space near Rio Grande del Norte National Monument. Sustainable community with sensible restrictions. This lot includes buy-in to community well. Unbelievable 360 degree views! 23,700 MLS 98107

Improved Land on the River. Beautiful Green Land with Many Trees and a Sunny Meadow. Borders National Forest. Has a well, septic, and excellent bridge. Already in place is a 1300 sf slab with radiant heat, plumbing stub-ins, & a steel superstructure for the home. And thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a septic hookup for an RV. $142,500 MLS 99635

MORE LAND

So convenient to center of Town and well share included. Power, phone, natural gas and fiber optic at lot. Great views.Â One acre.Â $58,500.Â MLS 99989 20 acres of wide open spaces, huge views. Borders BLM land. $25,000 MLS 96443 A lovely acre with trees, views and community water.Â $15,000 Â MLS 98468 Build your home here, or put a manufactured or modular home on the land. Close to town. 1 acre for only $18,000 MLS 99147

VIEWS IN TOWN Sweet spot! Choose your building site on this spacious 4 acre lot with some trees & beautiful mountain views. Quiet setting and only 20 minutes from Town of Taos. $58,000 Â MLS 99178

PARADISE FOUND

Convenient location on south end of town awaits the building of your dream home. Stunning 360 views. Fully fenced 3 ac. lot with utilities nearby. On paved road. 98,000 MLS 99273 Â

A rare opportunity to own a slice of the Land of Enchantment. 342 acres with river frontage, irrigation right and forest! Easy access to Taos and Sipapu. Outdoor recreation right at your doorstep, including fishing, skiing, hiking, horseback riding, and so much more. 1,200,000 MLS 100112

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

Walking into the home of Angie and Steve Spady, you are welcomed into their lives. The home holds a collection of their life experiences, including furniture, fabric and art collected from around the world. The paintings and wood carvings of local artists are also featured. “Everything has a personal meaning for us. It might seem quirky, but so are we,” says Angie Spady. She is a former art history teacher and pharmaceutical representative. Now she writes children’s books and makes jewelry. Since moving to Taos four years ago, she has taken on the renovation of the Weimer-area house with devotion and passion. She says that she has been making the house a home for her and her husband, an emergency room doctor. Their grown daughters who come to visit stay in a bedroom painted deep blue and filled with art, including their own paintings. When they purchased the home, the Spadys began to renovate it and dream of ways to capture the views. A first phone call to Felipe Rodriguez of 90 Degree Corners to get help with a minor plumbing problem turned into a four-year relationship that goes beyond just working to remodel a house. Since the first plumbing repair, Rodriguez has built portals and outdoor spaces, removed walls and added an “en suite” bathroom connected to the master bedroom. He says, “I came four years ago and never left.” The relationship of trust between the Spadys and Rodriguez is such that when Angie Spady was in a car accident, the first person she called was Rodriguez. Spady was returning from an early morning trip to take her daughters to the airport in Albuquerque last winter. As she neared the Stakeout area, she hit a patch of black ice and the car became airborne and landed 30 feet from the road. She couldn’t get out of the car. Knowing that Steve Spady was at work in the emergency room, she called Rodriguez. He found her, extracted her from the car and took her to his house to make sure she was all right. Of this friendship and others, Spady says, “I had no idea that when we moved here, we would find more friends in four years than in a lifetime living elsewhere.” The friendships and the openness she felt in Taos were a huge support as she struggled to recover from the death of her best friend and to overcome her own health problems. She threw herself into reimaging the home that was built in 2001. After Rodriguez repaired a cracked garage floor that had a drainage problem, the bigger projects began. An outside patio with a few flagstones laid on gravel was transformed into an elegant outside room. A new roof supported by vigas was built over the patio in a circular design. Rodriguez says that although the circular design was a challenge, it wasn’t too difficult. His son, Daniel Rodriguez, who actually cut each piece of wood to create the circular shape, clarifies that it was an exacting process to make sure each piece was correct. Their craftsmanship is evident in the way the new portal blends with the existing house and carries its character to the outside.

This outdoor room now has comfortable seating and is surrounded by flowering plants. A hot tub sits just off to the west. The whole patio area has spectacular views of Taos Mountain and El Salto, all perfectly framed by the new curved roof. The landscaping here, as well as at the entry and in a second garden on the south side of the house, was designed and installed by Jerry Schwartz of Sticks and Stones Earthwork. Schwartz has worked with the Spadys and with Rodriguez to create spaces that soothe and nurture by adding water features and flowers. As part of his work, he listens to the goals of the homeowners and then helps to make their visions a reality. He says, “When you design and install landscaping, you understand that it is the homeowners who will live with the results, so you want them to be happy. Visions evolve and change; patience is required to allow that to happen.” In the south garden, a stream of water emerges from under a spruce tree and bubbles through the landscape of green plants and flowers. It is visited by doves and lizards. It has Zen feeling of peace, but fits in with its Southwest setting, again mixing eclectic elements to produce a beautiful whole. This serenity garden is used for meditation, writing and napping. “It is a place to go when I am stressed out or seeking spiritual peace,” says Angie Spady. A final major project is the new bathroom connected to the master bedroom. Angie Spady found a picture of a room with a curved ceiling and showed it to Felipe Rodriguez. He set about creating a new room with a domed ceiling and a subtle faux finish that frames up a room for bathing and relaxing. A standalone tub gazes west over a field of lavender, planted by Steve Spady after he returned from the lavender fields of Provence in France. When the sun sets over the three-peaked mountain, Tres Orejas, it is almost a spiritual experience, says Angie Spady. She worked with an interior designer, David Naylor, of Santa Fe, to incorporate fabric from her travels to Italy and India into the cushions for the window seats and framed wall hangings. Art decorates the inset nichos designed and built by Rodriguez. It took months to construct the room, says Rodriguez. After it was finished, he returned to see the space now filled with tables, flowers and fabric. “We felt very proud,” he says. “This is the jewel of all.” As the work comes to completion, Angie Spady reflects that the process has been a way to find a sense of home and to heal from life’s challenges. “This has been a labor of salvation and has saved me in more ways than one. It has been a process of us dreaming and somehow Rodriguez and Schwartz have made it happen.” As the Spadys transition to their new lives in Taos, the soothing spaces are helping them learn to slow down. They came from a place in the East with limited views to a place with open views and open minds. “We came home here. We are blessed in so many ways,” says Angie Spady. For more information on her books and jewelry, visit angiespady.com To contact Felipe and Daniel Rodriguez of 90 Degree Corners, call 575 770 9621 Reach Schwartz at Sticks and Stones Earthworks at 575 770 3045

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

Courtesy Photo

Before

After

â&#x20AC;&#x153;This has been a labor of salvation and has saved me in more ways than one. It has been

Courtesy Photo

Before After

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

Courtesy Photo

After

Before

a process of us dreaming and somehow Rodriguez and Schwartz have made it happen.â&#x20AC;?

Before

Courtesy Photo

After

Courtesy Photo

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

Your Resource For 21st Century Living EACH OFFICE INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED

575-758-0080 & 800-336-4826 829 Paseo del Pueblo Sur

View all listings at www.c21success.com

pwardlow@c21success.com 575-741-1444

PHOTO BY JEN JUDGE

Large spacious Country Home on 3 acres in an excellent location and beautifully designed just minutes to town and all amenities. Quite private territorial style home and a metal roof with 4 bedrooms, 2 large baths, 2 half baths, 2 car garage, den, living room, fireplaces , beams, T & G ,wood floors private covered patio, shed, and an attic that is approximately 600 sq. feet. 6 foot ceilings for more space . Horses welcome on this inviting lush fenced acreage . Tall trees and mature landscaping. Plenty of room in this inviting environment . $549,000 MLS#100050

taosmenus.com

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

Pennie Herrera Wardlow Qualifying Broker

Spacious beautiful custom built home meticulously cared for home with a great open floor plan flows comfortably to outside living spaces on 2 acres, 5 bdr, 4 1/2 b. Lots of windows to bring in the ridiculous views of town, El Salto waterfalls, sunsets and beautiful mountains. Remodeled July â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;16. Kitchen has custom built cabinets w/island, quartz counter tops and copper sink.The second floor features a master suite w/sliding doors to outside deck, large bath w/two closets. Attached 2 car garage w/studio apartment upstairs, bathroom and kitchenette with itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own entrance for guests or rent out to skiers/summer visitors as property is close to Taos Ski Valley, hiking, biking and famous Arroyo Seco. Minutes away for shopping or dining. Bonus man cave or playroom/sewing room/fun room in basement. Vigas, beams, tile floors, smooth plaster, skylights, propanel roof, 2 on demand hot water heaters, 4 decks, fenced yards and flagstone patio. Surrounded by pine, pinon, juniper and fruit trees. $599,000 MLS#99988

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

CERRO

To Costilla & Colorado CERRO

QUESTA

ONDO MESA

El Norte

RED RIVER

SAN CRISTÓBAL

VALDEZ

TAOS ELIZABETHTOWNELIZABETHTOWN SKI VALLEY

TAOS SKI VALLEY

VALDEZ

ARROYO HONDO

EL SALTO

HONDO MESA

EAGLE NEST

ARROYO SECO

PA S E O

DEL P UE B

L O

DEL P UE

Taos Pueblo

EL PRADO Taos Pueblo

Taos Municipal EL PRADO Airport PA S E O

RED RIVER

os cipal ort

To Costilla & Colorado

QUESTA

SAN CRISTÓBAL To Tres Piedras & Chama

OYO DO

El Norte

O N

TE RANCHITOS

RANCHITOS

Kit Carson Park

KIT

BLUEBERRY HILL

RS O

Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial

LAS

BLUEBERRY COLONIAS HILL

KIT

RS O

TAOS

Vietnam Veteran’s CAÑÓN HEIGHTS Memorial

N R

TAOS

BL LP UE DE

PA S

LAS CORDOVAS

LP U

PA S

Taos Visitors UNM Taos Center

Taos RANCHOS DE TAOS Country Club

STAKEOUT AREA

STAKEOUT AREA HOMES VOL. CXVI

TAOS

CAÑÓN HEIGHTS CANYON DE

WEIMER FOOTHILLS

To Pot Creek & Las Vegas

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ANGEL FIRE

VALLE ESCONDIDO

AÑÓN RD

TAOS CANYON WEIMER FOOTHILLS

LLANO QUEMADO

LLANO To Santa Fé & Albuquerque QUEMADO

o Santa Fé & 5 2Albuquerque ENCHANTED

PA S

LC Taos Visitors CAÑÓN Center

Taos RANCHOS DE Country PA STAOS EO D E L CAÑÓN Club

CAÑÓN

To Pot Creek & Las Vegas

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. ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

Your Taos Ski Valley Specialist!

ST. MORITZ CONDOMINIUMS LUXURIOUS NEW CONDOS IN TAOS SKI VALLEY!

Beautiful architecture featuring scenic balconies with OUTSTANDING VIEWS. GREAT LOCATION! Only two minutes from the slopes, shops, restaurants, and other establishments while at the same time TUCKED AWAY from the hustle and bustle. Quality construction with granite counter tops, beautiful stone-work, custom cabinets, and gas fireplaces. Low HOA dues make this new project very attractive. MLS# 99428 .......Unit 101 .........$384,000 ............1Br MLS# 99430 .......Unit 102 .........$384,000 ...........*1Br MLS# 91266 .......Unit 201 .........$529,000 ...........*2Br ! LD.........$499,000 MLS# 91267........Unit ............2Br SO202 ! D.........$482,000 L O MLS# 99431 .......Unit 302 ............2Br S MLS# 99429 .......Unit 402 .........$438,900 ............1Br

Engel & Völkers Taos Real Estate 105 Paseowww.tsvrealty.com del Pueblo Norte · Taos, NM 87571 · USA Phone +1-575-776-0600 · Text TAOS to 21000 Keith Dowell, Qualifying Broker www.taos.evusa.com

(575) 776.0600

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXV

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXV

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, 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.”

Navigating

through appraisals and mortgage lending by Vanessa Dimond Dimond Mortgage 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 third party to assess the property’s market value. The security for the mortgage is the property itself. Should the borrower fail to pay the mortgage, the lender takes the property. That lender wants as much assurance as possible that the property is worth the value they based the loan upon.

REAL ESTATE FINANCE

When one applies 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. Ed was most knowledgeable about Taos County and surrounding areas and served on the national board of directors for the Appraisal Institute (AI) 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 who 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 principle 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 amounts, it’s reasonable to assume the subject would sell for a similar ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

When asked what the biggest challenges are for an appraiser in this market, Ed had two answers. “First, there is not enough sales data to reliably find strong comparable sales. There were around 275 to 300 residential home sales during some big years in this market. During leaner years, there might be about 170 to 200. 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 ‘arms length transaction’ and the market is both impacting and being impacted by that sale.” In short terms, according to Ed, “That many foreclosures has to affect the market value of homes throughout the area.” 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 to 30 percent disagreements on the value of a home based on two different appraisers turning in reports on the same property within 30 to 60 days of each other, though such disparity is untypical. This is often the result 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. There has been great effort over the past years to correct and improve the reliability of appraisals. One result of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act was to create a “firewall” between lenders and appraisers so that there is no – or at least reduced – potential for collusion between them to impact values. Appraisals are also scrutinized more carefully by lenders, and it’s not unusual for a lender to request additional comp sales from the appraiser in an effort to further substantiate value. Establishing the value of anything is difficult because much is subjective. What’s the value of a painting by Monet, a day on the beach, a handwritten score by Duke Ellington or a smile from a handsome man across the room? I suppose it depends. Regardless, the appraised value of a property is the most complicated and important piece of data collected by a lender in determining the acceptability, scope and nature of a loan. Vanessa Dimond has lived in Taos NM since 1989 and been in the mortgage business in Taos since 1994. Vanessa and her husband, Ted, opened Dimond Mortgage in 2003. Vanessa can be reached at vanessa@dimondmortgage.com

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

MLS 99132

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

Most of the high-end homes in Angel Fire are still owned by the people who built them, so they haven’t come on the market yet. According to Montee Sue Miller, a resort and second home property specialist with REMAX Mountain Realty, the “sweet spot” in sales in the area ranges between $300,000 and $400,000. But from time to time, a gem of a luxury house comes along. That is the case of the Bontke home, a mountain chateau perched on 17 groomed acres of Angel Fire’s Aspens subdivision, adjoining the Carson National Forest. “The livability of this home is exceptional,” said Miller. “While the main house has 5,510 square feet and the guest house has approximately 1,200 square feet, it is spacious, but still has a cozy, warm feeling. The house is nestled in the trees, yet the views are expansive.” The house was built in 2003 by Sutton Construction of Angel Fire. The fireplace was done by Mike Levison, of Taos, who is also a silversmith. The hardwood doors were created by another Taos craftsman. Painter Karen Drucker, of Dallas, Texas, moved to Angel Fire for several weeks to do all the faux painting throughout the house. “The attention to detail is incredible,” Miller said. “Whether a hand-painted bird’s nest above the timbers or a tiny hand-painted mouse under the stairs, there is something interesting everywhere you look.” The main house has five bedrooms, including two grand master suites, three full baths and a powder room. There are two living areas, a home theater and a fitness room. All of them are fully equipped, as the house is being sold totally furnished and accessorized, from the wet bar to the wall art. It even comes with snowmobiles for convenient transportation. The majority of homes in Angel Fire are sold fully furnished and – many times – accessorized and fitted for fun. This, Miller explains, is the norm for many second and third vacation homes. “They are usually sold turnkey down to the dishes and linens,” she said. “In this case, the home was professionally furnished and decorated and is being sold as a complete mountain getaway.” To find out more about the property, visit taosmls. paragonrels.com/publink/default. aspx?GUID=cb33d3a1-76de-491b98bd-cd16bd5986fd&Report=Yes

Contact Miller at: millers6212@hotmail.com or call 575 595 3030

She remarks that staging is critical in selling a home, whether it is a vacation home or a primary residence. “The old saying, ‘You never have a second chance to make a first impression’ is true, ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXV

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

whether you are talking about yourself or a home,” she said. “The first impression is critical, from the approach of the house, driving up the driveway, the front porch itself or the color of the front door… The same is true when you enter the house. Whether it is a $350,000 home or the Bontke home listed at $2.5 million, there needs to be a wow factor.” Everything about the Bontke property is indeed a wow factor, from the grand pianoshaped kitchen island to the hand-scraped wide plank hardwood floors. Miller, who is now starting her 12th year as a broker associate in Angel Fire, talks enthusiastically not only about the homes for the sale, but also the entire community. “We have a new $16 million country club, a $15 million RV park, an 18-hole PGA Championship golf course, a top-notch ski mountain and lots of great people here to enjoy them,” she said. She describes the housing market in Angel Fire right now as “very good.” “Typically, 80 percent of our sales occur between May and November, so the summer selling season is a busy one,” she said.

The Realtor Miller has a background in teaching. She also built a retail business and has successfully invested in real estate herself. “Sixteen years ago, my husband, Marshall, and I bought our first vacation home in Angel Fire,” she said. “As is often the case, owning a home in the Rockies accelerated my dreams of moving here. I came here for the weekend and found myself never wanting to leave!” She recalls that for years, she had thought that buying a resort or vacation home was strictly a luxury, but eventually came to realize that it can be “a sound and wise investment.” “My only regret is that we didn’t do it sooner so we would have had many more years of making family memories,” she said. Having been involved in many real estate investments for the past 35 years and with so much experience in buying and selling real estate, Miller decided she had the right background to help people in the Rockies “find their little piece of heaven.” “Investing in a mountain home is certainly a lot more fun than investing in mutual funds,” she said. “Give me a call and let me help you find your mountain getaway.” ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXV

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

For me, it is hard to be bored in the mountains because of all that Mother Nature provides at little or no cost. Living in or below a mountain means that you have access to water and the animals that depend on it. One has the hunting and fishing that can be had for almost free. There’s also the hiking and mountain biking and skiing, boarding and snowshoeing that come with the territory and the climate. While I won’t claim that skiing or boarding are almost free – they can be ghastly expensive for most folks – there are ways to reduce costs and make it reachable economically. Some do it by just signing on for the work the ski valley provides, a ski pass more than enough inducement to counter the low pay. Others are hardcore and hike to avoid lift costs. But carrying skis and equipment can be exhausting and limiting. Mountains – and that which they provide – make for natural places for folks to build homes and set up life’s camp. There are reasons that the Tiwas picked the base of Taos Mountain for their tribe to thrive – and those same conditions apply to everyone else. The Sangre de Cristos are loaded with ponderosa pines that provide wood for vigas and siding for homes. These mountains also provide aspens that become latillas, plus year-round water flows that provide for agriculture, livestock and people. Those of us who live here know the Río Pueblo that runs through the village and provides so much o those people. They didn’t pick their place on Earth by accident.

Mountain living is sweet living

by Harvey Blaustein Our society tends to label folks and put them in boxes. It also tries to place our tastes and preferences into handy compartments. So we hear about city folks and country folks, beach people and mountain men and women. Most of us have clear preferences, whether they are built into us genetically or come about from the environment in which we live and grow as humans.

MARKETSHARE

Growing up in a city environment where I did – New York – I had access to the ocean quite easily. Not a clean one, but an ocean. The mountains that were in my life back then were the Catskills, which I now know to be no more than hills after spending years in the Rockies. But those were my reference points growing up.

It wasn’t until my 40s that I got to see real mountains in the United States. (I had been blessed to be in some of Europe’s great mountain ranges at earlier ages, but didn’t appreciate it much back then. Nor did I spend much time in the unique cultures that high elevations seem to bring.) I must say that I was immediately smitten. There is something about the air, the light, the people who live in a place they choose – rather than are born to or feel stuck in – that makes all the difference in the world. As I’ve said before and will support below, once one lives in the Rockies, it is hard to live any place else. ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

And then there is the food supply – fish in the waters and wildlife on the land. The water that runs down into the valleys allows for farming and ranching. And Mother Nature seems to make sure there is always enough – even if just enough. We can’t discuss our mountains and our environment without laying claim to the best mud in the world. I offer as Exhibit A the Taos Pueblo, which has been there, made of mud and straw, for more than 1,000 years. And while it does require and get maintenance, it also looks like it will last another 1,000 years. That’s another free benefit of mountain living – at least in this part of the world. Did I mention the weather? While our mountains provide four-season climate, we have 320 days of sunshine a year. Come on, folks, we all know that life is sweeter when you wake up to sunshine each day, which is just about what we get. Mountain living is usually more rugged, less easy than city life. Just look at the cars – or trucks – we choose to buy. While there are lots of folks who can buy whatever vehicle they want, mountain livers tend to be practical. Heck, I knew a guy who came here with a Jaguar sedan with little road clearance. I knew he wasn’t long for Taos when he favored his spiffy car over our dirt roads and he drove off into the sunset in that Jag pretty quick. The rest of us drive cars that are usually well out of warranty, the time I was accustomed to getting rid of mine back in the day. Now, as a mountain guy, I don’t even look at a vehicle that isn’t four-wheel drive. Mine tend to be 8 years old or older for the most part. My truth is that after more than 22 years of Taos, I love living in the mountains. When I think about it, my honey used to gripe about having to pick up the catalog and the phone to do most of her shopping. But the world has come to us. Stores don’t matter these days, even in cities, thanks to the computer and Amazon. It is getting a tad easier to live in the mountains thanks to technology. But for most of us, we’d be here anyway. Life is just real sweet in our mountains. What more could you want? 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

FOR THE ENTERTAINER IN YOU… In the highly desirable Weimer, area we proudly offer a home with splendid views for those that love to entertain and enjoy living large. The great room has ceilings 18 feet high, the dining room is cozy with a fireplace at eye level, and there are 3 bedrooms, two of them masters, one a suite for expansive space. With plenty of outdoor spaces, this is a home to be enjoyed MLS# 99670 $599,000

SMASHING HOUSE, OFF THE 3RD GREEN… We proudly offer this 3 bedroom, 3 full bath home that speaks of casual elegance, with a huge 2 tier patio with hot tub overlooking the 3rd green at the Taos Country Club. The great room has 16 foot ceilings, the circular master shower will tickle your fancy & the wall of windows will tickle your eyes. And the landscaping is awesome. $599,000 MLS #99795

GREAT TURN KEY RESTAURANT OPPORTUNITY… Folks around here love to eat at the restaurant located at 316 Paseo del Pueblo Sur. The couple who created the place are well known locally, want to move on despite having created a place that has a well worn path to the front door. We proudly offer the location, lease, fully equipped kitchen and pantries, furniture, furnishings and even a menu of items and their recipes. And all can be had for less than the cost of the equipment. $129,000 MLS # 100248

LIVE ON TOP OF OUR WORLD... For those who have the freedom of choice, most choose to live in the Cañon foothills. Known for its incredible views, easy access to the National Forest, & minimal light pollution, the sounds of the wilderness will penetrate your ears. We proudly offer 3 of the finest lots in the area, 3.11, 3.61, 18.81 acres, all with sweeping views that will take your breath away – and make it hard to choose. Starting at $165K. MLS #99794

“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

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVI

ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM