New Mexico is the state of metaphysical influences and unidentified flying objects. Fortunately, there is no mystery about New Mexico real estate. Prices are exploding.

New Mexico

With mountain ranges and desert areas, New Mexico is a popular state with outdoor enthusiasts. Once can ski, hike, fish, camp and explore some of the most beautiful land in our nation. On top of this, the influence of Native Americans is strong throughout the state with rumors and suggestions of locations with great healing energies. And then there is Roswell. Yep, New Mexico receives its share of UFO enthusiasts due to constant rumors of UFO sightings, government conspiracies and all that entails. Overall, youll find New Mexico to be a state with a relaxed atmosphere and friendly people.

Sante Fe

Ten years ago, Sante Fe would have been rated as one of the top 10 cities in the United States. Dominated by Native American and Spanish influences, the city was a gem. Built at the foot of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, it was a fine mix of unique adobe influenced architecture and impressive Spanish churches and structures. Today, the center of the city maintains this impressive atmosphere, but the city has suffered from its reputation. Large numbers of people have moved to the state, particularly Californians seeking to avoid high living costs. Sante Fe hasnt dealt well with this population growth and the suburbs have a sprawling and unimaginative feel to them. Some people feel Sante Fe is still a gem, so give it a look if you are considering relocating.

Albuquerque

I always try to look for the positives in a city, but it is hard to do so with Albuquerque. I found the city to be a sprawling mess without much going for it. With over 500,000 residents, the city is the largest in New Mexico. There is a distinct Native American influence in the downtown area, but there isnt much else to promote in regard to the city. Outside of the city, there are locations along the Rio Grande that are very nice. Maybe its just me, but I cant imagine living in Albuquerque. You might feel different, so give it a look.

Taos

Unlike Albuquerque, Taos is a town I can heartily promote. A bit of an art colony, the majority of the towns population of 6,000 are Native Americans and they positively influence the town. Similar in feel to Sante Fe, but without the sprawl, the town is dominated by beautiful deep red adobe buildings and homes. With little cafes, museums and art galleries, the town offers a surprising amount of things to do. Make no mistake, however, Taos is a town to kick back and relax in. If you hate the rat race and sitting in traffic, Taos is the place for you. The ski resort in Taos provides some of the best skiing in the western United States.

New Mexico Real Estate

New Mexico real estate prices have traditionally been some of the lowest in the nation. With the influx of people from other states, prices have increased fairly dramatically. A single family home in Sante Fe will set you back in the $500,000 range, while the same home will run half that in Albuquerque. Taos homes vary entirely on the specific structure. Appreciation rates for New Mexico in 2005 were nearly 12 percent.

Raynor James is with the FSBO site - FSBOAmerica.org - homes for sale by owner. Visit our home buying page to view and buy New Jersey real estate.