The Taos, New Mexico Real Estate Market in 2010

Taos, one of the most beautiful ski resorts in thehistorical value, are recognized as being very
Western United States, is located in theenergy efficient.
southernmost tip of the Sangre de CristoPrices on condominiums in this part of New
Mountains in New Mexico. Today, it has some ofMexico begin at about $225,000 and top out at
the most sought-after real estate on the globe.approximately $260,000. Many are sold as
Taos has a rich history and culture that adds tovacation properties. Many ski condos are owned
its appeal as both a vacation destination and aby leasing companies and rented out to ski
permanent residence. Its unique architecturevacationers. Residential homes for sale can have
includes buildings constructed of adobe clay thatprices as low as $100,000 but could run into the
are centuries old. Today, it is also well known formillions of dollars depending on the size, structure
its "Earthships," modern, self-sufficient homes thatand location.
utilize alternative building materials and areTaos is best known as a ski resort community.
extraordinarily environmentally friendly. For moreAs such, it attracts winter visitors who come
than a century, writers and painters like D.H.back yearly for ski trips. After a few years,
Lawrence and Georgia O'Keefe have flocked tomany of these seasonal visitors decide to
the town as well, establishing it firmly as a popularpurchase Taos Ski Valley property as vacation
art colony as well as a resort town. These factsresidences or permanent homes. Land sales and
and more make Taos real estate highly desirableconstruction of new homes also contributes to
in 2010.the economy of the area. Some considerations
Traditionally New Mexico's real estate prices havebuyers should be aware of, prior to purchasing
been among the lowest in the nation. However, asland in the area, include rigorous subdivision
people have moved into the state, propertyregulations, issues dealing with access, road
prices have increased significantly as have theeasements, wells and septic systems.
appreciation rates on New Mexico homes. RealBecause of the uniqueness of the real estate
estate in Taos has enjoyed a steady appreciationmarket in Taos, it is particularly important to work
over the last 15 years.with an experienced real estate agent or broker
Housing comes in all shapes, sizes and styles ofwho has the expertise and knowledge to guide
construction in Taos, including seasonal rentals andyou through the important and complex issues
full time live-in condos and homes. Among theinvolved in the purchase of property in this
great variety of listed houses for sale are somedesirable New Mexico town.
of the old adobe homes, which besides their