If you are thinking of taking advantage of the Buyer Tax Credit, here are some surprising facts you should know taken from REALTOR Magazine. "The homebuyer tax credit is not as simple or straightforward as you might think. Here are some nuances that will affect homebuyers who plan to use it.

To qualify for the move-up tax credit, a home owner must have occupied the same principal residence for five of the last eight years consecutively. Buyers can elect to claim the credit on either their 2009 or their 2010 tax return, whichever is best for them.

Buyers who claim the credit in 2009 can't file electronically because the Internal Revenue Service hasn't put the required forms on line. The wait for a refund is three or four months.

The home can be a mobile home or travel trailer that is fixed to land owned or leased by the home owner. A mobile home or travel trailer that is actually mobile doesn't qualify.

The home can't be purchased from a close relative, including a parent, spouse, child, grandparent or grandchild.

A buyer who earns no taxable income or doesn't owe any federal income tax can qualify for the tax credit and file a tax return just to claim it."

Now is the perfect time to buy a home. Interest rates are still low, but they may be going up this spring. So give one of our experienced agents a call today and we will be happy to assist you with buying a home in Taos or an Angel Fire home.

With offices in Taos and in Angel Fire, we can offer you the best in Taos Real Estate or Real Estate in Angel Fire.

Don't forget that we also have a large selection of lots in the Angel Fire Resort - some are even Ski/In, Ski/Out for those avid skiers and snowboarders who want to be right on the slopes! If more acreage is what you are looking for, we also have fabulous 10-20 acre parcels available in Taos Pines Ranch and Hidden Lake (LAKEFRONT AVAILABLE).

You can search all Taos Real Estate and Angel Fire Real Estate through the Taos Real Estate Multiple Listing Service on the website home page "Quick Search". Just e-mail us with the MLS numbers you are interested in.

Thank you for visiting my blog. Let me know if I can be of further assistance with your Angel Fire or Taos Real Estate needs.

Moreno Valley High School has once again been named in the 2009 America's Top Public High Schools report by Newsweek magazine. According to the news release, schools were selected based on a formula that included the number of Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate or Cambridge tests taken by students, and the number of graduating seniors. Schools named to the list are in the top 6 percent of public high schools nationwide measured with this method.

Buying a mountain home in Angel Fire or Taos real estate never looked better. Perhaps you have considered purchasing your dream mountain home, but you are waiting until your children have graduated from high school because you want them to have more opportunities. Students from Angel Fire and Taos are finding a great education in a relaxed school environment where excellent teachers have the time to guide students toward high achievement. Picture your student's Spanish class on a field trip to the ski mountain less than 5 minutes from school, taking a ski or snowboard lesson in Spanish from a Chilean or Costa Rican instructor.

The Taos vacation property or home for sale in Angel Fire you thought was far in the future, could be your present. Take advantage of the slow recovery of homes for sale in Taos and real estate in Angel Fire during the window of opportunity to finance with low interest fixed rate loans. Currently, it is a buyer's market for real estate in Taos and Angel Fire with a large inventory of mountain vacation homes and properties on the market and many motivated sellers. Not ready for a home purchase yet? Some parents have purchased a ski condo or golf patio home in the Angel Fire Ski and Golf Resort just so their students can attend MVHS.

Our Taos property or Angel Fire real estate specialists can assist you in finding your mountain log home in Angel Fire. Come visit us for the Best in Taos Real Estate or Real Estate in Angel Fire. We have offices in both Taos and Angel Fire for your convenience. Allow us to assist you in making your dream of vacation, retirement or investment property come true.

With 12 inches of fresh snow, the Angel Fire Ski Mountain is ready for you!

Our recent snowstorm has brought a fresh bath of snow to the ski runs of Angel Fire and the temperature has remained cold so that snow making can continue at its optimum.

It is definitely a winter wonderland just in time for the holidays. Of course there will be both the Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve Torchlight Parades, but this year Angel Fire will also offer night skiing!

Angel Fire Ski Resort will be the first and only skiing and snowboarding mountain in New Mexico. The resort will be lighting up 50 acres for fun after dark including Exhibition, a favorite run, as well as Ridge Run and Dreamcatcher.

In addition, a set of freestyle park features including jumps, rails and fun boxes will be accessible for evening hours as well as the NASTAR race course and the Polar Coaster tubing hill.

Night skiing will be available Thursday through Sunday throughout the season and 7 days a week during the holidays.

The grand opening of night skiing will take place December 19. The opening festivities will include live music and entertainment adjacent to the slopes.

So if you are interested in calling Angel Fire your home, just check out our website to find the latest in Angel Fire Real Estate. Whether you are looking for a condo in Angel Fire or an Angel Fire home, our knowledgeable agents can assist you. We have all the up to the minute date on Angel Fire Real Estate with a quick search on our home page. It may be cold in Angle Fire, but Angel Fire Real Estate is HOT! There are great deals on land in Angel Fire as well, so don't hesitate....coming for the skiing and stay forever!!

New Mexico Mountain Properties is here to serve you and make your dream, of owning Angel Fire Real Estate a reality.

There are many reasons to come to Taos and the surrounding towns of northern NM for the holidays.

This season you can savor the many flavors of the Land of Enchantment. Taos and the surrounding communities of Angel Fire, Eagle Nest, Red River, Chama, and Sipapu offer an eclectic mix of history, culture, the creative arts, recreational activities galore and many forms of healing arts, both traditional and naturopathic.

The Taos Pueblo is a must on any visit to Taos. It offers a unique look into the intriguing culture and lifestyle of the Taos-Tiwa Indians. It is considered the oldest continuously inhabited community in the Untied States. The Taos Pueblo is committed to maintaining the traditional values and detailed oral history of the Tiwas. Visitors will see exquisite examples of adobe architecture in the traditional multi-storied structures which have been continuously inhabited for over 1000 years – to this day without electricity or running water. There is no better time to visit the Taos Pueblo than Christmas. Christmas Eve Vespers and Bonfires offer a magical experience. Natives, locals and tourists all gather for the procession of Mary through the pueblo. Large bonfires are built of aromatic cedar offering a warm glow on a cold winter's night. Christmas Day and New Year's Day visitors may observe ceremonial dances. Traditional and contemporary arts can be purchased at the many shops located within Taos Pueblo

The Lighting of Ledoux Street is a favorite for locals and tourists alike. This year the annual Lighting of Ledoux is scheduled for December 12 beginning at sunset. Join the shops, art galleries and museums located along one of Taos' most historic and picturesque streets as they open this doors to share music, food and holiday cheer while you experience the centuries-old traditions of luminaries lining the street and bonfires burning in the courtyard.

Sipapu Ski Resort offers a Christmas party full of fun for the entire family with cookie decorating and tree trimming.

On Christmas Day from 6-9PM just outside of Red River you can enjoy a winter fantasy of cross country skiing by the light of hundreds of luminaries at the Christmas Enchanted Forest Cross-Country Ski Tour. Posole, a traditional New Mexican holiday dish can be savored at numerous bonfires along the way. Torchlight parades are scheduled for Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve at 7PM

Of course there is skiing at the Taos Ski Valley, one of the nation's top ski and now snowboard areas. Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade starts at 6PM. Taos Ski Valley rings in the 2010 with the New Year's Eve Torchlight Parade and Fireworks at 6PM

Angel Fire Ski Resort offers Night Skiing where you can ski or ride 50 acres of groomed trails, Terrain Park, and NASTAR race course nightly from 4-9PM. Angel Fire also has Christmas Eve and New Year' Eve Torchlight Parade starting at dusk.

Another family favorite is the Cinder Bear Christmas Express on the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, a unique narrow-gauge train which travels throughout the mountains of New Mexico and Colorado. The trip includes a visit by Santa and Cinder Bear along with storytelling, caroling and lots of Christmas cheer.

Experience more of the cultural diversity and rich history of Taos and the wide variety of creative arts in the town's many museum, galleries and artists studios.

No visit to Taos can be complete without a visit to the San Francisco De Asis Church, one of the most painted and photographed churches in the southwest.

This is just a sampling of the magic that is Taos. So now you see why I say ...come to Taos for the Holidays and stay a lifetime? Allow me and my experienced agents at New Mexico Mountain Properties to show you how you can acquire Taos Real Estate and make Taos your home, too.

You can go back to the website and search all Taos Real Estate Listings, an up-to-the-minute source for information on Taos real estate featuring a complete database of all Taos real estate listings, updated daily! By indicating your specific search criteria, you will be able to narrow down the requirements which matter most to you in Taos Real Estate by entering the keyword in the search box of the FAST SEARCH, i.e. Lakefront, ranches, horse property, etc.

Allow us, at New Mexico Mountain Properties to make your dream of owning Taos Real Estate a reality. Give us a call today. See you at the Pueblo on Christmas Eve!

Happy Holidays to you and yours!

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

Taos Ski Valley opens its ski season Thanksgiving Day! For all you ski and snowboard enthusiasts this is a great day. Taos Ski Valley has been making snow for weeks thanks to Mother Nature's early snowfall. Remember, Taos Ski Valley now allows snowboarding so families will no longer have to divide their time between Taos and Angel Fire especially since Angel Fire Ski Mountain doesn't open until December 12.TSV will open with lift one running to White Feather and Powderhorn. There is presently a 20" base of natural snow and the mountain has been making "massive amounts "of manmade snow.

In the meantime, Sipapu Ski Resort has claimed is seventh consecutive year as the first ski area open in New Mexico. The ski mountain opened last weekend nearly top to bottom. Sipapu offers new features to their terrain parks as well as improvements to glades and runs.

Red River Ski Area has opened November 25 with their new triple chair to midway. The new lift will provide faster times to the summit and will also reduce lift lines providing a better over all experience.

So skiers....there is no better time to enjoy the ski mountains of northern New Mexico. While you are enjoying the natural pleasures of our gorgeous mountains, why not contemplate an investment in Taos Real Estate so that you can enjoy these pleasures year after year? Whether you are looking for a ski in/ski out condo in the Taos Ski Valley or in Angel Fire, New Mexico Mountain Properties can assist you.

Perhaps a Taos home may be of interest to you or Taos property to build you dream home. The weather may be turning colder, but Taos Real Estate is Hot! There are fabulous deals on Taos homes for sale or land in Taos. Taos real estate is always a great investment.

Allow our knowledgeable agents at New Mexico Mountain Properties assist you with all your Taos real estate needs. We are here to serve you. Give us a call today...well after you have enjoyed your scrumptious Thanksgiving dinner!

In news brief from the Taos Chamber of Commerce it was announced that %u21CTaos and the Enchanted Circle were ranked thirteenth in %u21C133 Destinations Ranked%u21D in the November/December issue of National Geographic Traveler. Taos is tied with the Kruger National Park in South Africa! It even appears that we are ranked fifth in the country! Taos is truly a place not only to visit, but a wonderful place to call home.%u21D

For cultural diversity, a fabulous 4-season climate, and the rich artist community makes Taos and the Enchanted Circle one of the best places to live in the USA!

Our fall was spectacular! The Fall Arts Festival brought a wonderful sampling of Taos established and emerging artists. I am so please and honored to report that I won First Prize for Contemporary Art and Drawing in the Taos Invites Taos exhibition!

We got our first real taste of the winter to come with 6 inches of snow in Angel Fire. The mountains surrounding Taos glistened with the fresh crystals of snow!

This is a great time to buy Taos Real Estate. We have had several lovely homes reduced in price to sell before the winter season begins. With the passing of the extension for a tax credit for all home buyers, not just first time buyers, even though winter is approaching and the outside temperature are falling, Taos Real Estate is hot!

Here is an excerpt from the latest bulletin from the National Association of Realtors:

The Extended and Expanded Tax Credit will contain the following provisions: Amount: $8,000 Eligibility: ALL HOME BUYERS (Step-up buyers will have to have lived in their current home for SEVEN* years to be eligible) Income Limits: $125,000 for single filers and $225,000 for joint filers Time Frame: December 1, 2009 to April 30, 2010 plus 60 Day extension if binding contract is in place by April 30, 2010

So why not give our knowledgeable agents at New Mexico Mountain Properties a call today to find out the best deals going in Taos and the surrounding areas. We are here to serve your for all your Taos Real Estate needs.

Fall has officially arrived in Taos!

It isn't only the Fall Equinox that marks the beginning of fall or the changing of the aspen to their glorious golden glow...it is the beginning of the Fall Season for Art in Taos!

Many people come to Taos to experience the nature and the history, but many more come to experience high quality fine art and craft.

Tomorrow marks the opening of the 35th annual Taos Fall Arts Festival. This is the beginning of the fall season for art in Taos where emerging artist get to show their work in the Taos Open, while established artist are juried in to the coveted category of Taos Invites Taos, and Taos Living Masters are recognized for their continued artistic excellence.

Many galleries also host openings for their artists in special fall shows. Art is everywhere in Taos, NM. We boast to be one of the highest concentrated artistic regions in the world.

What draws artists to Taos? As an artist myself (you can see my work in the "Taos Invites Taos" section of the Fall Arts Festival or at www.paulaverona.com!), it was the light, blue sky and sunshine. I give thanks each and every day for having moved to Taos!

However...you don't have to be an artist or an art lover to appreciate all that Taos has to offer. There is truly something here for everyone.

So...if you are looking for fabulous art, come to Taos. If you are looking to simplify your life, come to Taos. If you are looking for a great 4-season climate in which to retire, come to Taos. If you just want to come for the world class skiing, come to Taos. Whatever your reasons, Taos will welcome you. Once you come to visit, you will return again and again.

If you are thinking of Taos as a possible second home or a retirement location, my agents at New Mexico Mountain Properties are experts in Taos Real Estate. We go the extra mile to provide you with excellent service whether you are looking for Taos land to build your dream home, an authentic adobe Taos home, or maybe even a condo in the Taos Ski Valley to use yourself or as an investment property, we can assist with all your Taos Real Estate requirements. Just e-mail us or give us a call. We love to introduce others to the joy of living in this very special community.

Thanks for visiting my blog and maybe I will see you at the show!

Does the home in Taos you are thinking of buying require renovation?

Perhaps you should consider the FHA 203k loan program to borrow for both a home purchase and renovations costs. The 203k allows a owner-occupant to borrow money for both the purchase and renovation in one loan and put as little as 3.5 percent down!

The program requires the use of credentialed contractors and can include cosmetic improvements as well as major renovations like replacing or updating plumbing and electrical.

However, completing the application process can be daunting – it take a tremendous amount of time and patience. If you can hang in, many homebuyers are finding the 203k worth the hassle.

So if you are considering buying a Taos home or an home in Angel Fire which may require a bit of remodeling, this may be a great opportunity. Many sellers have lowered their prices so now is an excellent time to take advantage of the still low interest rates as well as the low down payment of the 203k loan program. There are some excellent opportunities in Taos real estate, so don't hesitate any longer!

For the best in Taos Real Estate and Real Estate in Angel Fire, give us a call today. With offices in Taos and Angel Fire, we are here to serve you.

Many may recall Gerald O'Hara's strong advice to his daughter Scarlett in Margaret Mitchell's "Gone With The Wind" regarding the importance of owning land...

" Do you stand there, Scarlett O'Hara, and tell me that Tara- the land- doesn't mean anything? Land is the only thing in the world that amounts to anything...for 'tis the only thing in this world that lasts, and don't you be forgetting it!"

Are you looking to possess your Tara....a lasting investment ....that perfect piece of New Mexico to secure for your future? Look no further, New Mexico Mountain Properties agents are Angel Fire and Taos land specialists. Whether you are looking for Taos land to build a home, a lot in Angel Fire for investment or spectacular mountain property for your retirement, land ownership represents the fulfillment of the American Dream.

Angel Fire offers lots with awesome natural beauty and spectacular views with all the amenities of resort living. Perhaps a Ski In/Ski Out lot is what you are looking for- we can assist you.

Would a large parcel of land suit you better? Look no further, Taos Pines Ranch offers 10-20 acre parcels of tall pines and aspen with lush green meadows of brilliant wildflowers with Carson National Forest as your back yard. Check out the parcel map and price list on my website – click the menu tap on the left side of the home page for Taos Pines Ranch. Several parcels have been reduced and a few offer owner financing (see my blog posted August 5, 2009 on owner financing). Prices start at $249,900 for 10 acres with breathtaking views.

How about total privacy and seclusion with your own private lake where you can fish for trophy trout and hike along trails left by the abundant wildlife that inhabit the area at Hidden Lake? Many of the sellers at Hidden Lake are also offering owner financing. Check out photos of the various 10-20 acre parcels on my website by clicking the Hidden Lake tab on the left side of the home page menu bar. There are some fabulous deals at Hidden Lake with prices starting at $110,000 for 10 acres.

Whatever your dream, allow our land specialists to assist you in Picking your Piece of Paradise. Call us today for the best deals! The aspens will be changing soon, so why not plan a trip and allow us to show you all that northern New Mexico real estate has to offer.

Remenver...land is the only thing in the world that lasts!

Pending home sales are up for the fifth consecutive month! This is a great sign that consumer confidence is returning to the real estate market here in Taos and in Angel Fire. Now is the time to BUY! Low mortgage interest rates and lower prices on homes plus a large selection of homes on the market in varied price ranges are encouraging buyers who have been "waiting to see".

However, first time buyers need to act soon. In order to take advantage of the $8000 tax credit...you must close by November 30, 2009. Although bills to extend the first time buyers tax credit beyond November 30, 2009 are pending in both the US House and Senate, there is no time like NOW!

So....if you are looking for a home in Taos or a mountain getaway in Angel Fire, allow New Mexico Mountain Properties to assist you in your search.Our knowledgeable and experienced agents have access to the complete Taos Real Estate Multiple Listing Service for Taos, Angel Fire, Red River and surrounding areas of Northern New Mexico.

Realizing the great buyer opportunity, many investors are also recognizing that they can buy and rent their properties. So whether you are a first time buyer or a savvy investor, buying Taos Real Estate and Real Estate in Angel Fire is a great investment.

Give us a call... with offices in Taos and in Angel Fire, we are here to serve you – 888-687-5253