New Mexico Real Estate - The Mystical and Mysterious State
New Mexico is the state of metaphysical influences and
unidentified flying objects. Fortunately, there is no mystery
about New Mexico real estate. Prices are exploding.
New Mexico
With mountain ranges and desert areas, New Mexico is a popular
state with outdoor enthusiasts. Once can ski, hike, fish, camp
and explore some of the most beautiful land in our nation. On
top of this, the influence of Native Americans is strong
throughout the state with rumors and suggestions of locations
with great healing energies. And then there is Roswell. Yep, New
Mexico receives its share of UFO enthusiasts due to constant
rumors of UFO sightings, government conspiracies and all that
entails. Overall, you'll find New Mexico to be a state with a
relaxed atmosphere and friendly people.
Sante Fe
Ten years ago, Sante Fe would have been rated as one of the top
10 cities in the United States. Dominated by Native American and
Spanish influences, the city was a gem. Built at the foot of the
Sangre de Cristo Mountains, it was a fine mix of unique adobe
influenced architecture and impressive Spanish churches and
structures. Today, the center of the city maintains this
impressive atmosphere, but the city has suffered from its
reputation. Large numbers of people have moved to the state,
particularly Californians seeking to avoid high living costs.
Sante Fe hasn't dealt well with this population growth and the
suburbs have a sprawling and unimaginative feel to them. Some
people feel Sante Fe is still a gem, so give it a look if you
are considering relocating.
Albuquerque
I always try to look for the positives in a city, but it is hard
to do so with Albuquerque. I found the city to be a sprawling
mess without much going for it. With over 500,000 residents, the
city is the largest in New Mexico. There is a distinct Native
American influence in the downtown area, but there isn't much
else to promote in regard to the city. Outside of the city,
there are locations along the Rio Grande that are very nice.
Maybe it's just me, but I can't imagine living in Albuquerque.
You might feel different, so give it a look.
Taos
Unlike Albuquerque, Taos is a town I can heartily promote. A bit
of an art colony, the majority of the town's population of 6,000
are Native Americans and they positively influence the town.
Similar in feel to Sante Fe, but without the sprawl, the town is
dominated by beautiful deep red adobe buildings and homes. With
little cafes, museums and art galleries, the town offers a
surprising amount of things to do. Make no mistake, however,
Taos is a town to kick back and relax in. If you hate the rat
race and sitting in traffic, Taos is the place for you. The ski
resort in Taos provides some of the best skiing in the western
United States.
New Mexico Real Estate
New Mexico real estate prices have traditionally been some of
the lowest in the nation. With the influx of people from other
states, prices have increased fairly dramatically. A single
family home in Sante Fe will set you back in the $500,000 range,
while the same home will run half that in Albuquerque. Taos
homes vary entirely on the specific structure. Appreciation
rates for New Mexico in 2005 were nearly 12 percent.