Need to save $50,000? Here's how to make it happen.

Build your down payment in five years

You'll need to save about $834 per month to meet this goal. It's still a lot of money but completely doable if you're willing to cut back in places you currently spend. Use the tips from our last two blogs to help you cut costs and free up more cash for your down payment. Consider investing your down payment savings in a taxable brokerage account. But remember, all investments carry risk.

The biggest challenge in saving $834 per month for this length of time is staying focused. To help, create an automatic transfer from your checking to your savings each month so you know that money consistently moves to your down payment fund.

And of course, working on earning more during this time will help too. Just as you would if you shot for the three-year goal, you can work to make lasting, big-impact changes to your earnings. If you're entrepreneurial, that might mean starting something on the side and slowly growing that to a full-time business that generates more revenue than your current gig. The possibilities are endless, and with five years, you have much more time to test different paths and figure out what works best for you.

So when you are ready to buy a home or condo in Angel Fire or Taos we are here to assist you in all your Real Estate needs in Taos or Angel Fire. Are you looking to build your dream home we have many lots or larger parcels to choose from in Taos and Angel Fire. If you cannot locate the house, condo or land you desire, on our website, you can access the Taos/Angel Fire MLS from our website. We are dedicated to bringing you the best in Real Estate throughout the Enchanted Circle. For your Real Estate needs in Taos call us at (575) 758- 5852.Looking to buy or sell Real Estate in Angel Fire our number is (575)377- 2626. Our warm and inviting staff of knowledgeable agents go that extra mile to find exactly what you desire. To speak directly to a broker call Paula at 575-770-3306. We are here to serve and welcome you to our growing community.

Information obtained from Trulia

Save for a down payment in three years

While it's still an ambitious savings goal (you'll need to save $1,389 per month), your approach won't need to be quite as extreme. However, the basic steps remain the same: Cut unnecessary costs and look to increase your income so you have more cash to save. Here are a few ideas to help you eliminate expenses and immediately save hundreds per month.

Switch to a streaming service

Reduce the number of meals out you buy each week

Eliminate expensive entertainment

Cut back on your vices

Work out at home

Negotiate your bills

Making the changes in this list could save you $455 per month, which means you're down to finding about $1,000 in your cash flow to allocate to your down payment goal. Giving yourself three years also lets you make sustainable and lasting strides with earning more. Every time you earn a raise, get a bonus, or make extra income, contribute it straight to your savings fund for your $50,000 down payment. That will either allow you to reach your goal sooner or require you to cut back less in spending.

Interested in buying or selling Taos or Angel Fire Real Estate we are the company to contact. Maybe Land in Taos or Angel Fire is what you desire we have many lots or larger parcels to choose from. Are you searching for the perfect Angel Fire or Taos Ski Valley condo close to the slopes. We are here to help with all of your Angel Fire or Taos Real Estate needs. Perhaps you are desperate for the perfect Taos condo, house or Earthship to feed your creative side. Call us in Taos at (575) 758-5852 or in Angel Fire call (575) 377-2626 our warm and inviting staff of knowledgeable agents go that extra mile to find exactly what you desire. We are dedicated to bringing you the Best Real Estate in the Enchanted Circle. To speak directly to a broker call Paula at 575-770-3306. We are here to serve and welcome you to our growing community.

Information obtained from Trulia

A 20% down payment is a great savings goal, but it's also a lot of cash. Let's say you want to buy a home that costs $250,000. You'll need $50,000 in cash to put down. That's no small number. But you can make it happen in the near future. Here's how you can work to build a down payment in one year.

Raise a down payment in one year

To build a savings fund of $50,000 in 12 months will require you to set aside $4,167 per month and take some extreme measures to make it happen. First, look at every single dollar you can cut from your current spending. Here are a few ways to aggressively trim your expenses.

Move in with a friend or family member to slash your rent.

Sell useful but not strictly necessary assets.

Get rid of every nonessential expense, no matter how inexpensive it may feel.

Downgrade essential services for cheaper options.

Perhaps you can reduce your insurance coverage and drop the cost of your monthly premiums. Other places to consider: your cellphone plan and your groceries. Your new rule should be "If I don't need to buy it, I won't." Remember, you need to bank $4,167 every month. Many people's total monthly budgets don't add up to the amount you're trying to save!

In addition to saving, you'll probably need to consider earning more to meet your goal. Take on additional work or get a second job to generate more income. While this might not be sustainable for years, doing so for 12 months could give you the boost you need to save that $50,000.

Interested in buying or selling Taos or Angel Fire Real Estate we are the company to contact. Maybe Land in Taos or Angel Fire is what you desire we have many lots or larger parcels to choose from. Are you searching for the perfect Angel Fire or Taos Ski Valley condo close to the slopes. We are here to help with all of your Angel Fire or Taos Real Estate needs. Perhaps you are desperate for the perfect Taos condo, house or Earthship to feed your creative side. Call us in Taos at (575) 758-5852 or in Angel Fire call (575) 377-2626 our warm and inviting staff of knowledgeable agents go that extra mile to find exactly what you desire. We are dedicated to bringing you the Best Real Estate in the Enchanted Circle. To speak directly to a broker call Paula at 575-770-3306. We are here to serve and welcome you to our growing community.

Information obtained from Trulia

If you're a buyer looking in a part of the country where you may not see a home's front lawn until May, keep these points in mind as you shop.

Seeing a home at its worst is a plus

Let's face it, no home shows at its best in the middle of the winter. It's cold, dark and often wet. And that's great news for the buyer. Why? Because you can discover its flaws, such as a lack of privacy, abundant street noise, leaks or drafty windows. You'll see the home in its worst "light". Come spring, the flowers, grass, landscaping and foliage will only enhance the home.

You can ask to see summer or fall photos

What about features you"re unable to test?

request that they leave money in escrow or extend the closing time frame. When warm weather returns, you can inspect them then.

Documentation can help alleviate uncertainties

In the event you can't inspect every feature or get escrow funds negotiated, ask for documentation.

It doesn't hurt to ask Although homes sell all year-round, it takes a determined customer to trek through the snow and ice to initiate a real estate transaction. For the right house, a winter purchase could spell opportunity. Double up on due diligence, and don't be afraid to ask for a longer closing or to arrange to have the home inspected come spring.

Everything is negotiable, so smart buyers should protect themselves.

Interested in buying or selling Taos or Angel Fire Real Estate we are the company to contact. Maybe Land in Taos or Angel Fire is what you desire we have many lots or larger parcels to choose from. Are you searching for the perfect Angel Fire or Taos Ski Valley condo close to the slopes. We are here to help with all of your Angel Fire or Taos Real Estate needs. Perhaps you are desperate for the perfect Taos condo, house or Earthship to feed your creative side. Call us in Taos at (575) 758-5852 or in Angel Fire call (575) 377-2626 our warm and inviting staff of knowledgeable agents go that extra mile to find exactly what you desire. We are dedicated to bringing you the Best Real Estate in the Enchanted Circle. To speak directly to a broker call Paula at 575-770-3306. We are here to serve and welcome you to our growing community.

Be sure the home is easily accessible

If there is snow or an ice storm, clear the driveway, sidewalk and any pathways on which potential buyers may walk. If there are back steps, don't forget to clear those, too.

Keep the heat on

There is nothing worse than walking into a cold home. It's not warm or inviting, and that affects the buyer's senses. A chilly reception ensures their first impression is not a good one. If you have an upcoming showing, be sure the heat is on and the house is warm and cozy.

Show off your winter wonders

If you have a fireplace in your home, there is no better time to show it off than the winter months. Buyers love walking into an open house where there is a fire going. It adds to the ambiance and provides a comforting feeling. Keep the kindling and logs loaded up at all times.

Let buyers see your outside attributes

In the warmer months, it's not uncommon for buyers to step out on the deck, down into the yard and into the landscaping. They will want to see the outdoor space and get a feel for the lot and the land. Although in winter buyers may be less likely to tour the grounds, they will still want to know what's there.

Interested in buying or selling Taos or Angel Fire Real Estate we are the company to contact. Maybe Land in Taos or Angel Fire is what you desire we have many lots or larger parcels to choose from. Are you searching for the perfect Angel Fire or Taos Ski Valley condo close to the slopes? We are here to help with all of your Angel Fire or Taos Real Estate needs. Perhaps you are desperate for the perfect Taos condo, house or Earthship to feed your creative side. Call us in Taos at (575) 758-5852 or in Angel Fire call (575) 377-2626 our warm and inviting staff of dedicated knowledgeable agents go that extra mile to find exactly what you desire. To speak directly to a broker call Paula at 575-770-3306. We are here to serve and welcome you to our growing community.

Information Obtained From Zillow

Don't overlook these areas that may be outside your inspector's expertise.

Inspection day is exciting. It's an opportunity to spend an extended period in your new-to-you Angel Fire or Taos, NM, real estate, exploring every nook, cranny, closet, and attic. Besides running all the faucets, testing the appliances, and peeling back that shag carpet to check for hardwood (fingers crossed!), what else should be inspected? Simply put: Everything.

Your home inspector should examine every square inch of the house, from the electric garage door to the built-in microwave. Faulty construction, improper electrical wiring, inefficient insulation, old heating, building permit violations, and other unseen problems can lead to expensive home repairs -- large and small. However, don't assume that if you hire a home inspector, they will be able to tell you absolutely everything you need to know about the house.

Home inspectors are very careful not to take on liability for issues outside their area of expertise, so there are certain areas that home inspectors will be hesitant to "sign off" on. Fill in the blanks by following up with additional inspectors who are experts in the following eight fields.

1. Roof inspection

You'll need to call in a roof specialist if your inspector isn't qualified to inspect the roof. Also, keep in mind that the roof may be difficult to access and examine if it's covered with snow. In this case, it may be possible to include a special provision that allows you to extend the inspection contingency specifically to accommodate the roof, in the hope that the weather improves.

2. Chimney inspection

If you or your home inspector suspect instability or hints of structural damage, it's important to hire a chimney specialist. The specialist will be able to use a "chimney cam" (a small video camera used to inspect the chimney from the inside) to uncover hidden damage.

3. Geological inspection

A property on a cliff or hillside, or one that is located in a flood zone, can benefit from a geological inspection. The inspector could unearth a severe drainage or ground-shifting problem -- and save you thousands in repair costs down the line.

4. Sewer inspection

Your inspector may be able to tell whether things are, um, "flowing," but a sewer expert can get a better sense of the integrity of your sewer line with a sewer camera to discover cracks or breaks from the house to the street. A sewer inspection is critical for properties that are heavily landscaped, where root growth can crack and clog the pipeline. Don't overestimate the importance of this inspection; a sewer line replacement can be an enormous expense.

5. Termite inspection

The seller commonly pays for this inspection, because many lenders will need one before approving a loan on the house. Regardless of who pays, make sure you review the finished report and that all the recommended work has been completed.

6. Moisture, mold, and toxin inspection

It's important to check for moisture in any crawlspace, basement, or below ground level areas. Moisture indicates a potential mold problem -- if there isn't one already. Be sure your house has a clean bill of mold health, especially in wet areas close to oceans or lakes.

7. Asbestos inspection

If the house was built prior to 1975, you will need an asbestos inspection. Asbestos can be present on insulation around ducting, water heaters, and pipes. If it is accessible and can be removed by an asbestos specialist, consider asking the seller to foot the bill.

8. Nonconforming-use inspection

The issue of nonconforming use does not require a specific additional inspector. It is usually a joint effort between your inspector and your real estate agent to determine if all additions and major changes have been properly permitted. Converted garages, sun porches, or add-on bedrooms can increase square footage, but when completed improperly, they can add headaches when it's time to make them legal.

Whether you are looking to buy a home in Taos or Angel Fire or sell your Angel Fire or Taos home call on Paula. We have two offices to serve you. In Angel Fire call (575) 377-2626 or in Taos call (575) 758-5852. There are many homes to choose from. We are members of the Taos Multiple Listing Service, so if you don't find the Taos property or property in Angel Fire that you are looking for on our site, you can access listings throughout The Enchanted Circle via the Taos MLS to view all Taos Real Estate and Angel Fire Real Estate listings. To speak directly to a broker call Paula at 575-770-3306. We are dedicated to making your dream a reality.

Obtained from Trulia

Home sellers often suggest to their agents that they should take their listings off the market during the winter holidays.

Surely nothing happens between now and the end of the year.

It's best to wait for the spring selling season, right?

Perhaps surprisingly, the answer is: not necessarily.

Conventional wisdom used to be that you shouldn't even try to sell your home during the busy holiday season.

But with the Internet, smartphones, tablets and our always-on lifestyle, that conventional wisdom isn't relevant anymore. The reality is, the home-buying season is now year-round.

Here's why you should consider listing your home during the holidays -- or even in January.

Today's buyers check the listings 24×7

These days, serious buyers are always real estate aware -- and the holidays are no exception. They may check out the latest listings in a mobile real estate app. before bed or while waiting for the bus. You know the drill. We can't pull ourselves away. Our hectic lifestyles also play a role. Many serious buyers today work hard. They don't shift into holiday mode until the last minute. Even during the holiday break, they're still squeezing in work. There's no such thing for them as "going off the grid." So why not continue to monitor real estate listings, too?

The inventory -- your competition -- is lighter

Despite our always-on lifestyles, many sellers still believe buyers stop looking come mid-November. At the same time, sellers who've had their homes on the market for months often take them off now to give the listing "a rest."

The net effect is that the inventory for good homes often tightens this time of year. There's less competition for sellers, at a time when motivated buyers are out there looking -- and no doubt wishing there were more properties to see.

If you've been considering selling, are motivated, are flexible on timing, and have a salable home, consider listing right after Thanksgiving. There's still a window of several weeks to get buyers into your home before the end of the year.

And those buyers swiping right will be excited to see something new and awesome hit the market. Buyers will be motivated to see your home, regardless of what the calendar says.

Update a slow mover

If your property has been on the market for months, most buyers and their agents will assume its stale, overpriced or that something is "wrong" with it, no matter how light the competition is.

In that case, it's time to take action, and the year-end holidays can be a great opportunity to shift course. Dramatically reducing the price or overcoming some major obstacle that's been preventing the sale might be what's needed to sell your home.

If you received lower offers early on but weren't ready to accept them, or you keep hearing there are issues with how your property shows, this is a good time to show the market you're listening and are serious about selling.

The motivated buyers, desperate for good inventory, will notice you and take a look. Strike while the iron is hot. You might even get a sale closed before the end of the year. But before you make any big changes, talk it over with your real estate agent, as always.

Plan B: List in January

Admittedly, the thought of keeping the house clean, holding open houses and vacating to accommodate last-minute showings during the holidays is a deal breaker for some would-be sellers.

If so, consider listing your property after New Year's Day. Traditionally, not much inventory comes onto the market in early January. While January inventory is typically still very tight, the number of buyers may be growing. Often, new buyers are ready to jump into the market as soon as possible. Some buyers are motivated to search for a home in January because of year-end tax planning.

Whatever the buyers' motivation, for sellers it means one thing: Demand for homes can increase at a time when inventory is traditionally low. And that means if you're ready to sell, you'll have an even more "captive" audience during the holidays, all the way through January.

Whether you are looking to buy or sell a home in Angel Fire or Taos, look to New Mexico Mountain Properties for all of your Real Estate needs. Our warm and inviting staff will help you get exactly what you are looking for, like our majestic mountain homes for sale in Angel Fire will give you the mountain setting you may want while our unique Taos homes for sale will let you get in touch with your creative side. Our Taos Ski Valley and Angel Fire condos for sale will put you right next to all the winter activities. If you're looking to build your own home, then our Angel Fire and Taos land for sale will give you the freedom to create your own dream home. If you are seeking to live totally off the grid, then look to our Taos Earthships for sale. Whatever you're looking for we can help you find it. Give us a call at 575-377-2626 in Angel Fire, 575-758-5852 in Taos or 575-770-3306 to speak directly to an agent. We are here to serve and welcome you to our spectacular area.

Information obtained from Zillow

The holidays might not be the most popular time to buy a home, but with lower buyer competition, motivated sellers, and year-end tax benefits, there are some good reasons to consider. So, if you're in the market, take note of these several benefits.

1. Bargain prices

The final month of the year is known for frantic shopping and countless holiday parties but not necessarily for purchasing a home -- and this can work in your favor. With fewer buyers in the marketplace, the available homes for sale are priced to sell. Plus, with fewer active buyers, there's less likelihood of bidding wars, and escalator clauses.

2. Flexible schedules

There's no need to wait until Saturday or Sunday to cram eight house showings into your schedule. Rather than using up your precious weekends, take an end-of-year vacation day on a weekday to check out the available inventory (especially if your company has a "use it or lose it" policy). Chances are, your agent has some time on their hands as well and would appreciate staying busy throughout December.

3. Motivated sellers

If a home is on the real estate market in December, there's usually a specific reason the sellers are looking to move: It could be job relocation, financial hardship, or personal change of circumstance. Regardless, it gives you an opportunity to negotiate a sweet deal -- lowball the listing price and ask for a closing date that works with your schedule.

4. Tax benefits

Purchasing a home in 2016 is good for your bottom line when tax time rolls around. If you close by December 31, you can deduct property taxes, mortgage interest, origination points on your loan, and interest costs -- all while building equity in your home. These deductions can be huge money savers, especially in the early years of your loan when you're paying off interest.

5. Lending lull

With everyone off celebrating the holidays, December is traditionally a lean month for mortgage brokers. That gives you an advantage in building the best possible mortgage you can. Since there are fewer real estate transactions, loan officers may be motivated to offer special incentives and possibly waive or reduce origination fees. With so few loans in the pipeline, underwriting turnaround times will be quick. You may be able to negotiate a better price with the seller if you're able to close the purchase in under 30 days.

When looking for the best Taos or Angel Fire Real Estate let us help you find your dream home. With amazing homes for sale in Angel Fire and Taos, you are sure to find that perfect home. Maybe land for sale in Taos and Angel Fire might be what you are looking for to build your dream home or live off the grid in our stunning Earthship homes for sale in Taos. How about a fabulous condo for sale in Angel Fire that puts you close to the slopes? Whatever you fancy, we are here to assist. Call us at 575-377-2626 in Angel Fire or 575-758-5852 in Taos our dedicated knowledgeable agents go that extra mile to find exactly what you require. To speak directly to a broker call Paula at 575-770-3306. We are here to serve and welcome you to our growing community.

When looking for a Real Estate Broker to sell your home in Taos or Angel Fire or to purchase a home in Angel Fire or Taos contact Paula Madappa.

Here is a review from one of Paula's former clients...

...There aren't many real estate brokers in northern New Mexico that have Paula's qualifications. When it came time to sell our home at Hidden Lake, there was no doubt that she possessed the professional skills, the stamina, and most importantly, the client base to sell our home.

Selling a home in northern New Mexico - especially a high end home - is a challenge. The market is not like California or Florida where a bidding war can occur after three days, resulting in a sale over your asking price. In New Mexico, you've got to find an agent who can effectively market your property over a long period of time and not lose interest. There are likely to be many twists and turns along the way to selling your property, and you've got to have an agent who can keep up.

Paula is exactly that kind of person. We have known her since the 1990s and watched her build a great business based on honesty, consistency, and of course, a great client list.

Here are some of the reasons that make Paula Madappa a great choice:

1 - Long time presence in the real estate business in northern New Mexico. She's plugged into the market and knows what's trending.

2 - Great business location. She commands one of the most prominent locations in Angel Fire with a business location that is visible to virtually everyone who enters town.

3 - Great internet presence. Rather than hide in the backwoods of this rural area, Paula has heavily invested in her internet presence, expanding her client base and potential for new contacts exponentially.

4 - Professionalism - Setbacks do occur, and when they have, Paula has taken them in stride and dealt with them in a professional manner. So whether you're considering the sale of your home or looking for one to buy, we recommend a visit to Paula Madappa at New Mexico Mountain Properties. She has the tools you need to get it done.

Donald L. Fink • Service provided: Helped me sell a home • Year: 2014

Whether you are looking to buy a home in Taos or Angel Fire or sell your Angel Fire or Taos home call on Paula. We have two offices to serve you. In Angel Fire call (575) 377-2626 or in Taos call (575) 758-5852. There are many homes to choose from. We are members of the Taos Multiple Listing Service, so if you don't find the Taos property or property in Angel Fire that you are looking for on our site, you can access listings throughout The Enchanted Circle via the Taos MLS to view all Taos Real Estate and Angel Fire Real Estate listings. To speak directly to a broker call Paula at 575-770-3306. We are dedicated to making your dream a reality.

Whether you plan on moving in the distant (or not-so-distant) future, these upgrades could be worth making before you go. Say you're living in a starter home. You don't plan on being there forever, but you also aren't going anywhere anytime soon. You'd like to make some home improvements, but you're worried you won't get much return on your investment when you're ready to sell.

While this thinking could be accurate if you're planning to fully gut and renovate your kitchen, there are plenty of projects that will add enjoyment to your day-to-day living These five projects are inexpensive (around $5,000 or less) to implement and will provide you with enjoyment for years to come -- or at least until you hang that "for sale" sign in the front yard.

1. Swap out your kitchen countertops

But don't assume granite is always the best choice. Granite isn't as special as it once was because every kitchen has it now. If the countertops are the only upgrade you're planning, splurge on recycled glass (around $85 per square foot) for a true wow factor, or for a less expensive but equally stunning option, try quartz (around $60 to $75 per square foot). Stick with neutral colors which will appear clean and bright and won't turn off potential buyers.

2. Invest in a free-standing fireplace

Adding tons of character without breaking the bank. Free-standing units use piping to vent the smoke out of the home so it makes for an easier, more cost-effective installation.

3. Increase your living space with decking

An affordable extension of your home and a perfect place to entertain guests or relax with your family. Decking materials can be used to create patios, outdoor living rooms, and even outdoor kitchens.

4. Add low-voltage outdoor lighting

Think lights along your driveway, walkways, and patio, and uplights on trees. Once you have a lighting system in place, make sure to install timers, which can also deter burglars.

5. Give your exterior a makeover

Have your house exterior and front porch professionally power-washed, upgrade light fixtures (this can be as simple as replacing the bulbs, swap out the hardware on your front door, upgrade your mailbox, replace worn-out or broken shutters, and freshen up your landscaping.

Whether you are looking to buy or sell a home in Angel Fire or Taos, look to New Mexico Mountain Properties for all of your Real Estate needs. Our warm and inviting staff will help you get exactly what you are looking for, like our majestic mountain homes for sale in Angel Fire will give you the mountain setting you may want while our unique Taos homes for sale will let you get in touch with your creative side. Our Taos Ski Valley and Angel Fire condos for sale will put you right next to all the winter activities. If you're looking to build your own home, then our Angel Fire and Taos land for sale will give you the freedom to create your own dream home. If you are seeking to live totally off the grid, then look to our Taos Earthships for sale. Whatever you're looking for we can help you find it. Give us a call at 575-377-2626 in Angel Fire, 575-758-5852 in Taos or 575-770-3306 to speak directly to an agent. We are here to serve and welcome you to our spectacular area.

Information obtained from Trulia