To Market, to Market

 

Santa Fe ranks among the The Top Ten Housing Markets for the Next 10Years, according to a US News and World Report article published last month. The rankings were based on a Moody’s Economy analysis of employment data, population figures and industry trends in 384 distinct metropolitan statistical areas. The eclectic assembly starts with Bermerton-Silverdale, Washington and ends in Decatur, Illinois. Santa Fe itself is tucked modestly between Sandusky Ohio and Pittsfield, Massachusetts. It’s a basket of apples and oranges. But on the short list of cities whose economies are considered sufficiently diverse and vigorous to bode growth, Santa Fe is a relative plum for its rich vein of culture, excellent restaurants, recreational activities and fabulous weather.

Many people assume they cannot afford a home in Santa Fe. And while it’s true that property values tend to run high and that we haven’t suffered the bottomed-out prices and foreclosures of many locales around the country, there are an impressive number of affordable properties on the Santa Fe Market right now. Combine those with low interest rates and, for first-time home buyers, the $8000 tax credit and you have a golden moment to grab a slice of the City Different.

At this writing there are over 219 single family homes, condos and townhomes priced under $250,000 available within the city limits–46 of these are single family homes. Drop the price point to $225,000 and the total number of homes is still 169 of which 20 are single family homes. Add Area 13, off Airport Road (an area which straddles city and county and was, therefore, left off the original reckoning) and the number of homes under $250K grows by an additional 59 homes of which 54 are single family dwellings, starting as low as 169 K.

Currently, we have three active listings priced under $200,000. 1713 Calle de Oriente Norte , listed at $148,900, is a sun-filled corner unit that shines with fresh paint and the owners’ loving care. The enclosed patio off the kitchen is ideal for al fresco dining or as a play area for toddlers or dogs. With a small terrace off the East-facing Master, plenty of storage and an office nook, this pleasant, modestly priced home is a terrific value.

111 East Santa Fe Ave., unit #3 and unit #4 offer affordable luxury just two blocks from the Plaza. These renovations of a original 1912 Pueblo Deco structure blend the best of contemporary beauty and Old World grace. Jaw-dropping granite counters, appliances by luxury vendors like ASKO and Sub-Zero, designer finishes, good storage, and smart floor plans make these small but exquisite units little miracles of comfort, convenience and visual appeal.

To Market, To Market to buy a fat pig

Home again, home again, jiggety jig….

–Mother Goose

HOUSING MARKET UPDATE, July 2010:

Bloomberg Businessweek report places Santa Fe among Housing Markets That Will Be Strongest By 2014 Click the link to read the full article.

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For full access to the MLS, visit our website at www.santafedowntownrealestate.com. Or to obtain straight-shooting, experience-backed advice on buying or selling a home in Santa Fe, please contact me, Malissa Kullberg, or my business partner, Joshua Maes via phone, text or e-mail.