Beginner's Guide to New Mexico

Exploring the Southern Half of the State

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If you would rather visit the Southern half of the state, it will also take you at least a week to visit the highpoints, but much longer to take in all of the treats hiding in Southern New Mexico. You will once again arrive at the Albuquerque airport and spend a night in town. Visit the Old Town Plaza to set the mood for the trip, and maybe visit the New Mexico Museum of National History and Science. End the day with a tram ride at Sandia Peak Tramway.

On Day 2, head west to Acoma Pueblo for some Native American history and then travel on to the New Mexico Mining Museum in Grants where you can visit a simulated mine. Continue south to El Malpais to see large black lava fields then on to El Morro National Monument. Travel a little further and spend the night in Socorro so you can get an early start at the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge. Here you’ll see a plethora of migratory birds (especially in the winter time) as well as a number of interesting wildlife species. After visiting the wildlife refuge, finish out Day 3 by heading east to the Valley of Fires and feast your eyes on yet another lava field. Try to travel on to Ruidoso to spend the night which has become a booming resort town. Pick a nice resort as you will be spending two nights here.

While in Ruidoso, spend Day 4 taking a hike through the mountains or go snow skiing, depending on the time of year. For a fun family adventure, try having a chuck wagon dinner from the Flying J Ranch while enjoying their Old West show. Spend the night again in Ruidoso.

On Day 5, continue south through the Mescalero Apache Indian Reservation. Continue into Alamogordo and visit the New Mexico Museum of Space History and then White Sands National Monument to see the great expanse of snow white dunes. Plan to spend the night in Alamogordo.

Take Day 6 to visit Carlsbad where you can explore not only the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park, but the amazingly beautiful Carlsbad Caverns as well.

Before heading back to Albuquerque on Day 7, stop through Roswell and tour the International UFO Museum and Research Center. Or, if aliens aren’t your thing, take a side road to Ft. Sumner to see where Billy the Kid once lived and is buried. Once you get to Albuquerque, have dinner at La Casa Sena to put a nice punctuation mark on your trip.

A Two-Week Stay in New Mexico

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If you are fortunate enough to spend two weeks in New Mexico, there are many amazing sights to behold throughout the state. Once again, plan to start in Albuquerque and follow the Northern itinerary for the first six days. From Taos, drive to Chama to see the pueblo dwelling at the Chaco Culture National Historic Park. The next day, board the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad. Then, pick up the itinerary for the Southern half of the state on Day 2, and follow this itinerary until you end again in Albuquerque.

Sources:

1. www.nmtourism.org/go/loc/travel/page/DB-season/season/2.html
2. www.frommers.com/destinations/

New Mexico Real Estate Overview

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It is no wonder that New Mexico’s real estate industry continues to grow from year to year. The draw to the state’s natural beauty as well as it plethora of outdoor activities, cultural events and fascinating history are only a few contributors to the wonderful quality of life New Mexico offers. The mild climate and over 300 days of sunshine a year are also advantages to making New Mexico your home.

The larger cities in north central New Mexico, such as Santa Fe, Albuquerque and Taos, continue to have a growing real estate market that is equally beneficial for buyers and sellers. These cities have the benefits of a typical metropolitan area but not the overcrowding that is becoming rampant in other large U.S. cities.

There are other growing cities in the Southern part of the state such as the resort town of Ruidoso and the high desert town of Silver City, just 150 miles west of El Paso, Texas.

The Santa Fe Market

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Santa Fe is the capital city of New Mexico and an integral economic hub for the state. It has been touted the second most desirable U.S. city to live in for a high quality of life by Conde Naste Magazine in 2005. The beautiful topography and cultural diversity add to the charm and character of the city, as well as the large amount of sporting activities, cultural events and fine dining establishments.

o Market Conditions: The real estate market is solid for both buyers and sellers here in Santa Fe. Sellers are able to find a home they desire in about a week if they are diligent, and buyers are getting their asking price for their homes about 97% of the time. There is some lack of inventory in certain price ranges and types of housing, but it appears that most buyers are willing to spend top dollar on a house that has been kept in excellent condition and are looking for inventory in certain hot spots of the city. The majority of properties being purchased are single-family homes, as records keep breaking for the sales of single-family units from year to year. Most buyers right now are families looking to upgrade from smaller homes. Real Estate agents do not forecast any bursts in the proverbial bubble any time soon.

o Statistics: The average time a house in on the market is 30 to 60 days. The average home price in Santa Fe is $360,000, which is up 5-10% from last year. There is interest in all types of housing in Santa Fe, but the emphasis is on single-family homes under $600,000. Because of the high demand of homes in the area, a limited supply of residences is available.

o Neighborhoods: One of the delightful things about home shopping in Santa Fe is the different types of architecture the homes display. So much so, that Santa Fe is known as “The City of Different.”

The West Alameda and Guadalupe areas offer homes between $125,000 and $400,000. West Alameda has your typical family neighborhood-type homes as well as areas with more land a little way out that have great views. This area is close to downtown and the homes have older, solid construction. The homes in Guadalupe are on smaller lots, nestling them close together, and many are being snatched up to be restored to their old charm.

South Capitol is also an area whose homes are being renovated, but there is a dotting of new homes being erected as well. Condos and rentals are available in this area, but the vacancies don’t last long as this is a desirable region for many who have lived in Santa Fe for some time. This neighborhood has a great reputation for being well cared for, having great schools and the neighborhood is quiet and convenient. The homes here range fro $175,000 to $600,000.

Some of the most expensive property in Santa Fe is located in Southeast Santa Fe where you can also find the museums, the Old Santa Fe Trail and other historical treasures. The lots tend to be larger and some have breathtaking views. Prices here start in the mid-$300,000s and reach well into the millions. The houses are mostly mature and a combination of adobe structures and ranch style homes.

The Eastside of Santa Fe is also a historic district and residents can enjoy the shopping, art galleries and dining spots that the nearby Canyon Road has to offer.

Albuquerque Real Estate

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Albuquerque is a fun and convenient place to live in New Mexico. The areas here are a bit older, but renovating these older homes is becoming a popular trend. Albuquerque has several parks, walking and hiking trails, locally owned restaurants and shops and the major airport of the state. The University of Mexico is located in Albuquerque which adds to the atmosphere and diversity of the town. The wonderful weather and cost of living are attractive to people relocating from more expensive urban areas.

o Market Conditions: Albuquerque is growing at a rapid pace with most of the expansion heading westward. The growth has led to record-breaking home sales and an increase of average sales prices from $150,000 in 2000 to over $200,000 in 2005. The real estate brokers do not predict a slowdown in real estate sales and expansion for at least five years.

o Neighborhoods: Albuquerque can be divided into four regions: Northeast, Southeast, Northwest and Southwest. The North and South are divided by what was once Route 66, and the East and West regions are divided by Broadway.

The Northeast section of the city includes the University of New Mexico and the foothills of the Sandia Mountains. Because of these landmarks, the area’s growth is limited. Some of Albuquerque’s most upscale and affluent neighborhoods are located in the Northeast quadrant, however the area has homes in every size and price range.

The Albuquerque International Airport, Kirtland Air Force Base and Sandia National Laboratories are located in the Southeast section of the city. Well-established neighborhoods are prevalent here as well as a few contemporary areas. This area also has homes in every price range.

The city seems to be ever-expanding to the west, which gives the Northwest quadrant newer homes and neighborhoods in conjunction with some of the city’s most established and oldest neighborhoods. You can find large secluded properties in the rural areas of this region or more densely populated areas growing atop West Mesa, where the affordable housing starts as low as $70,000.

The Southwest section contains a lot of agricultural areas, but as you head toward downtown you’ll find one of the most highly sought after neighborhoods in the Old Country Club area. The homes in the southwest area have various architectural styles, including many southwest style homes.

Real Estate in Taos

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If you are looking for an area that is a little smaller and quieter but still full of cultural tradition and beauty, Taos may be the place for you. The area is enchanting with remarkable landscapes, museums, outdoor sporting adventures and only 9.8 residents per acre. Taos is comprised of several Spanish Villages located at an elevation of 6,950 feet.

o Market Conditions: The Taos area is also growing rapidly and has a healthy balance of buyers and sellers. Sales of residential properties were up 14% in 2005, but the dollar amount of the sales was up 38%. The average selling price of a home in Taos has jumped from $227,900 to $271,000. Condominium sales are also popular right now with an increase of average sales escalating from $159,000 to $209,000. Land sales are growing in Taos – up 11% in number of sales but up a whopping 43% in dollar sales. There is a sense of urgency among land buyers currently, as they are suspecting that all of the prime real estate will be snatched up quickly. Land, homes and condos are being purchased as investment opportunities as well as residential dwellings.

Taos may sound like an increasingly expensive place to purchase a home, but it is still very reasonable compared to other popular towns also located in the Rocky Mountains. The real estate professionals in Taos do not predict a decline in pricing and also expect the buying trend to continue as people discover the wonderful quality of life Taos has to offer.

Popular Real Estate Around the State

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Ruidoso is another growing area that is located in Southeast New Mexico. The mountain village is becoming a booming resort town offering great snow skiing and has even been deemed “The Playground of the Great Southwest.” Most of the homes being purchased are second homes for people living outside the state who want a piece of the great quality of life Ruidoso has to offer.

Located in Southwest New Mexico, Silver City is currently a seller’s market. The town is located 155 west of El Paso, Texas and is a mountain community with beautiful rock formations and lush landscapes. The average selling price for a home in Silver City in 2005 was close to $250,000. Most properties here are on one-half to ten-acre lots.

Sources:

1. http://realtytimes.com
2. www.taosrealestatebroker.com/taos.html
3. www.pfmontrose.addr.com/areas/html
4. http://househunternews.com/mr.php?c=nm-santa-fe

Short Stays In New Mexico Overview

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Perhaps you are traveling all over the Southwest and only have a couple of days to spend in New Mexico. If this is the case, consider what types of attractions you and your family would like to see and then decide on a “home base.” For example, plan to stay in one of New Mexico’s more populated cities for nice lodging and eats and take mini day trips from there. It is easy and convenient to take day trips in New Mexico to see historical, cultural or outdoor activities.

Historic Day Trips

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If you are staying in Santa Fe, you are not far from some historical treasures. Here are some examples of scenic trips that are sure to please:

o The Ancient Ruins Loop is less than an hour away from Santa Fe, and driving this route allows you to explore cliff dwellings and other Native American artifacts.
o Or, take the Turquoise Trail which is located between Santa Fe and Albuquerque that allows you to get out and visit ghost towns, a mining museum, interesting rock formations, have a picnic while overlooking one of the breathtaking vistas of the area, and even stop at a petting zoo.
o Los Alamos is also easily accessed from Santa Fe. Here you’ll see more well-preserved ruins as well as a museum that educates visitors on the coming of the nuclear age. If the season is right you could ski the Pajarito Plateau, or if it’s warmer you could visit local wineries. As with many areas in this region, there are unforgettable rock formations that are sure to delight you.
o The trip north to Chama will be a full day of taking in historic sights so get your rest the night before you embark. In this area, be sure to visit the Chuco Culture National Historic Park, Aztec Ruins National Monument and the Salmon Ruins for a good dose of pueblo history. If you are interested in landscapes, check out El Morrow National Monument and El Malpai National Monument for lava fields. Since there isn’t much local lodging in this rustic region, plan to drive back to Santa Fe that night or camp out under the stars like the Indians did in one of the local campgrounds.

If you would like to make Albuquerque your home base, there are also some great day trips sure to satisfy any history buff.

o The Jemez Mountain Trail between Albuquerque and Santa Fe is a great place to see Indian pueblos, visit some rare natural hot springs, discover a 17th century mission church and walk around a gigantic volcanic crater.
o For more Indian pueblos, travel to Laguna and Acoma Pueblos for some charming and magical Indian ruins.

If you are staying in Taos, take a day to walk through the Historic Houses of Taos which chronicle the lifestyles of the earliest Native Americans, Spanish colonizers and Anglo settlers and how their various cultures influenced the developed of the area. For another day trip, travel the High Road to Taos to pass through quaint mountain villages whose settings are still preserved from the 18th century. You’ll pass by historic adobe churches, galleries and of course, beautiful vistas. But if you’re staying in Taos, you will probably want to spend at least a day or so taking advantage of the great snow skiing regions around Taos County.

For a variety of historical excursions, base yourself in the Southeastern part of New Mexico and visit Roswell and Ft. Sumner. Although this area may seem like miles and miles of ranching country, you will be pleasantly surprised with the unusual attractions that seem to be located in the middle of nowhere. Roswell is supposedly where you can see UFOs and where the first outer space visitors landed. Travel through Ft. Sumner where the likes of Billy the Kid once did and even see where he is buried.

If you’d like to stay in Northeastern New Mexico, take a day trip to the Clayton area and visit the dinosaur tracks that are still intact from eight species of dinosaurs. Also, visit the natural wonder of the Kiowa and Rita Blanca National Grasslands and the Capulin Volcano National Monument.

Exploring the Wild, Wild West

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Silver City and the Gila Wilderness area offer a little bit of everything, but if you are interested in the pioneering days of the old Southwest you’ll want to visit the well-preserved mining town of Silver City. The area also boasts the work of local artisans, ancient cliff dwellings, and great hikes, biking trails and even horseback riding through the Gila Wilderness.

Base yourself in Las Vegas which was once the largest city in the state located along the historic Santa Fe Trail. It doesn’t take much to visualize the covered wagons that once road into town along this trade route that originated in St. Louis, Missouri. Visit Fort Union which was the largest military installation in the Southwest during the late 1800’s. This area was also the headquarters of Teddy Roosevelt’s Rough Riders. If you’re going to visit this fascinating area filled with the lingering spirits of outlaws and gun slingers, but sure and bring your cowboy boots!

The Billy Kid National Scenic Byway located is an 84-mile stretch that really takes you back to the times of the Wild, Wild West. Check out a historic fort, ride a stagecoach of pan for gold to get the most of your pioneer experience. It is also a great area for bird watching, hiking, camping, mountain biking and even snow skiing in the winter time.

Outdoor Adventures

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The State of New Mexico is full of outdoor adventures that show off the state’s natural beauty as well as the sunshine and mild temperatures that the state is known for. Spring is the ideal time to take your adventures to the deserts, mountain lakes and rivers of New Mexico.

o Hiking: Pretty much anywhere you go in New Mexico there you will find a hiking trail. Even if you are based in one of the state’s larger cities, it only takes a few minutes to get yourself into a beautiful mountain hike. The Manzano Mountains are located southeast of Albuquerque and offer a spectacular hiking experience with jagged peaks, deep canyons giving you unforgettable views and less congestion than the other mountain ranges in the state.
o Rafting: In spring, the mountain snow is melting and white water rafting is a favorite pastime for New Mexicans. If staying in Taos, take an exciting ride down the Rio Grande for thrills and beautiful nature observation.
o Snow Skiing: The best times to snow ski in New Mexico are the months of November through April. The Northwestern corner of the state is famous for its broad bowls and backcountry that make it a great place for cross-country skiing. Or, maybe you would prefer skiing the old logging roads of Mount Taylor in Cibola National Forrest. You should set up your camp in Grants if this is the course you want to take. Snow skiing is also very popular in the north central region of the state in the Taos and Angel Fire areas. The Enchanted Circle stretches 84 miles from Taos and winds you through several areas that offer snow skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing and even ice fishing. The Circle carves through the Carson National Forest and includes the areas Angel Fire, Eagle Nest and Red River.

Sources:

1. www.nmtourism.org
2. www.fommers.com
3. www.frommers.com

Accommodations in New Mexico

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New Mexico Attractions and Restaurants

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New Mexico Real Estate

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Short Stays In New Mexico

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Beginner's Guide to New Mexico

Exploring the Southern Half of the State

A Two-Week Stay in New Mexico

New Mexico Real Estate Overview

The Santa Fe Market

Albuquerque Real Estate

Real Estate in Taos

Popular Real Estate Around the State

Short Stays In New Mexico Overview

Historic Day Trips

Exploring the Wild, Wild West

Outdoor Adventures

Accommodations in New Mexico

Accommodations in New Mexico Overview

Santa Fe

Albuquerque

Taos

New Mexico Attractions and Restaurants

New Mexico Attractions and Restaurants Overview

Attractions and Dining in the North Central Region

Northwest Region

Northeast Region

New Mexico Real Estate

New Mexico Real Estate Overview

The Santa Fe Market

Albuquerque Real Estate

Real Estate in Taos

Short Stays In New Mexico

Short Stays In New Mexico Overview

Historic Day Trips

Exploring the Wild, Wild West

Outdoor Adventures