The North Hills – The Neighborhoods of Santa Fe, New Mexico

Swirled beneath a fathomless night of bright, whispering stars is an area of Santa Fe known to the folks who live here simply as the North Hills.  The Sangre de Cristo Mountains are part of the southern tip of the Rockies and this neighborhood is not only in that range but in the city limits. From Bishop’s Lodge Road turn right on Valley Drive and wind your way through a surprising assortment of architectural styles. Northern New Mexico pitched roofs, Mediterranean tiles, and Contemporary Pueblo all pepper the hillsides. Some of the attractions here are larger wooded parcels , the proximity to walking trails and arroyos the ease of biking and walking to town and the superb views sunset  and mountain views.  Driving into the hills you’ll eventually come to Hyde Park Road leading to the Santa Fe Ski basin.  

Be sure to take a look at Homes For Sale In The North Hills

Oil Stains On A Garage Floor

I ran across a tip on how to remove oil stains on a garage floor. Remove the surface oil with cat litter to soak it up. Remove that and then make a paste of hot water and laundry detergent. Scrub it. If you need to, sparingly use oven cleaner.  I have lots of tips for use around the house and I’d love to share them. Give me a call at 505.470.4180 if you need any.

I’ll see you in the neighborhood!

Michael

Don Cubero Avenue-The Neighborhoods of Santa Fe, New Mexico

As the snow spreads over the city of Santa Fe I walk Oscar, our Pug, through our South Capitol neighborhood and along Don Cubero Avenue.  The avenue is aglow in a lustrous morning light that paints the elms and sidewalks an amber color. Like something out of a Frank Capra film, the homes here have the flavor of old Santa Fe.  Folks are on evening strolls, saying hello from their front porch swings.  The smoky scent of Pinon pine fills the air.  Doctors, lawyers, artists, call this neighborhood home.  Within walking distance are Body, The Railyard, the Plaza and fabulous restaurants.   Vinaigrette is a new, chic  little dining spot specializing in salads.   It’s located at 709 Don Cubero Alley. There are luxury homes in the area too so be sure to take a look at Homes For Sale On Don Cubero Avenue

Michael’s Bit of Real Estate

It’s never too late to start over. Is it time to re-invent yourself?  For those of you who like market data, the latest absorption rates for Santa Fe and Santa Fe County are posted and I’d love to discuss them with you.  Sales are up and inventory is down.  There are higher sales numbers and buyers understand the value of living in the Land of Enchantment.  Interest rates are at 40 year low.

My Business-To-Business Referral

 This is a part of my work that I really love and that is to be able to refer the best of the best to my clients and friends.  This week, let me introduce you to John Salvatierra and his Sustainable Landscape Company.  He offers snow removal, stonework lighting, walls and everything in-between for residential and commercial projects.  My friends and clients are delighted with him and John is a person I can put my name to.  John can be reached at 505.699.0069. Be sure to let him know I referred you and he’ll take extra special care of you.  As always, if you need anything please be sure to give me a call on my cell at 505.470.4180.

I’ll see you in the neighborhood,

Michael

Camino De Las Animas – The Neighborhoods of Santa Fe, New Mexico

The smell of the sleeping streets calms me on my morning walk through Camino De Las Animas. Birds sing and the dogs bark. It’s a short lane near downtown Santa Fe with a gorgeous abundance of Victorian, Territorial and Pueblo Revival architecture.  No less prominent is the home of one of our most famous artists, Gustav Baumann, now owned and preserved by the Historic Santa Fe Foundation.  Several homes on this street are included in the National Register of Historic Places. When you come to visit Santa Fe, be sure to take a stroll on this magical street to see why life in this city is so enchanting.  While you’re here, be sure to take a look at Homes For Sale In The Neighborhood

Michael’s Minute of Real The President signed an extension and expansion of the Homebuyer Tax Credit through April 30, 2010.  As long as the home is under contract by that date and closing occurs by June 30, 2010 an $8,000 tax credit is available for first-time homebuyers (those who have not purchased a home within the last three years). A credit if $6,500 is available for homeowners who have lived in the home they are selling, or have sold, as a principle residence for five consecutive years of the past eight.  These credits are available to buyers with incomes below $125,000 for singles and $225,000 for married couples.  Homes valued at more than $800,000 are not eligible.  Please feel free to call me for more details at 505.470.4180  

My Business –To –Business Referral

Each week I let you know about an outstanding business in Santa Fe.  Let me introduce Dr. Chris Fuller of High Country Macula, Retina and Vitreous.  Chris is a surgeon most capable for any type of ocular trauma, having travelled the world with ORBIS International, a non-profit organization exclusively dedicated to improving eye care in some of the world’s most remote, impoverished and underserved areas.    Let him know I referred you and he’ll take extra special care of you.  He can be reached at 505.982.5716. If you need anything, please feel free to call me at 505.470.4180

I’m hoping to see you in the neighborhood.  Let me be the first to say, “Happy Thanksgiving!”

Michael Umphrey

Saveur  Restaurant – The Neighborhoods of Santa Fe, New Mexico

Today I decided drive through the web of streets to breakfast at one of my favorite French restaurants, Saveur.  I’ve known the proprietaires, Dee and Bernie Rusanowski, for many years and I was delighted to learn that they are returning tomorrow from a trip to the French countryside where they celebrated their 50^th wedding anniversary.  With innovative hospitality they serve chef specials of gourmet soup (today is Seafood Chowder, Cream of Asparagus or Vegan Garden Vegetables).  For a real flavor of French cuisine Santa Fe locals come for breakfast and then  return for lunch to feast on the gorgeous abundance of Dee’s and Bernie’s sumptuous buffet selections.  The small restaurant is scrupulously clean, and the pride in which the chefs have prepared the food lets you know they’ve put their hearts around every detail. Dee and Bernie seem to know everyone by name and I’m glad they are back from France.  The address is 204 Montezuma Street and their number is 505.989.4200. Bon appetite! 

Be sure to take a look at Homes For Sale In The Neighborhood

Michael’s Minute of Real Estate

Here are some effective ways to lower your insurance premium without lowering your coverage.  Check out online resources.  Go to the Department of Insurance for your state to make an educated comparison of various companies.  Compare quotes from at least three different insurance companies to determine which one has the best coverage and premium.  Consider using one insurer for all your needs.  Some companies offer a multiple policy discount if you buy auto, home and life insurance policies from them as well.  Consider a higher deductible.  Increasing your deductible by just a few hundred dollars can make a big difference in your premium.  Check to see if you belong to any groups or organizations that can get you a lower rate.  Common examples include alumni associations and service clubs.  Dennis Rossi is my insurance agent at The Insurance Connection and he can be reached at 505.984.0206

My Business To Business Referral

Each week I let you know about an outstanding business in Santa Fe.  Let me introduce to you Luis Delgado, owner of Delgado Iron Works De Santa. For ultimate privacy in our South Capitol neighborhood home Tonia and I had Luis manufacture and install a most beautiful iron gate.  His craftsmanship and ability to introduce ornate intricacies is unsurpassed. He can perform refurbishing or re-design and expert welding.  Luis is terrific at what he does and is a person I can put my name to.  Luis can be reached at 505.471.6605 and is located at 1310 Siler Road. Let him know I referred you and he will take excellent care of you.  If you need anything please feel free to give me a call at 505.470.4180.

I’ll see you in the neighborhood,

Michael

Oshara Village – The Neighborhoods of Santa Fe, New Mexico

This morning, I toured the new, energy efficient homes in Oshara Village. This neighborhood is located next to the Santa Fe Community College and close to the mall we call Santa Fe Place, the rodeo grounds and the Genoveva Chavez Community Center.  It is a 470 acre mixed-use, “walk able” community and a template of New Urbanism for “green and sustainable” living. The Oshara Flea Market is every Sunday from 9:00-2:00, weather permitting, and it rivals the old Tesuque Flea Market in its size and offerings and fun. 

 Be sure to take a look at Homes For Sale In Oshara Village

Michael’s Minute of Real Estate

It’s getting to be harvest time here in the Rockies and I’m reminded that it’s not what we have but what we enjoy that constitutes our abundance.  These next three months are a sprint to the finish and a time to reap the rewards of tending and weeding.   Prices are adjusted, homes are handsomely staged, interest rates are unbelievably low and it’s the most beautiful season in Santa Fe.

My Business To Business Referral

Each week I let you know about an outstanding business in Santa Fe.  Let me introduce to you Matthew Rieland of Roy’s Pest Control and Tree Service.  “We lay to rest the common pest”.  He can answer any question you have about any ant, rodent, insect or bat in your attic.    Matthew is terrific at what he does and is a person I can put my name to.   He can be reached at 505.982.1888 or on his cell at 505.471.7151.  Let him know I referred you and he will take excellent care of you.  If you need anything please give me a call at 505.470.4180.

I’ll see you in the neighborhood,

Michael Umphrey

Camino Pequeno – The Neighborhoods of Santa Fe, New Mexico

It’s mid September and the amber light that seeps down through the cottonwoods reveals the most romantic and secluded lanes one could ever hope to find.  In the heart of the historic Eastside neighborhood just off East Alameda is Camino Pequeno and at the end of this heavily wooded lane is an area designated as a Wildlife Preserve, home to beaver, birds and even black bears dining in the apple orchards. Until you take a stroll through this Eden it’s hard to believe that it’s a short walk to the Plaza and Downtown Santa Fe. The Santa Fe River is just a trickle now but its silver threads of water flow parallel to the Acequia de la Muralla, irrigating the gardens of thirteen families residing here.  

Before you put on your walking shoes be sure to take a look at  www.8CaminoPequeno.com

Michael’s Minute of Real Estate

The latest Absorption Rate figures for Santa Fe City and County are now available. In the month of August there were 2,361 homes on the market.   A total of 95.42 homes sold, leaving 24.74 months to absorb the inventory.  I’m happy to give you the breakdown in price ranges if you give me a call at 505.470.4180

My Business-To-Business Referral

Each week I present to you an outstanding business.  Let me introduce to you Stephanie Sharman, owner of Tamayo Studio.  Stephanie offers faux finishing, plaster repair, water damage repair, concrete floor crack repair, painting, decorative art and more.  She has been in business for 16 years.  My clients and I are always delighted with her exquisite work and the current market demands that your home be in pristine condition.  Stephanie is a person I can put my name to.  She can be reached at 505.310.8177 and at tamayostudio@nets.com. Let her know I referred you and she will take extra special care of you.

I hope to see you strolling along the neighborhoods of Santa Fe.

Continued success,

Michael Umphrey

Amaya Restaurant – The Neighborhoods of Santa Fe, New Mexico

Tonia and I dined with friends this week at Amaya, the restaurant in the Hotel Santa Fe. Only 1 block from our house, I wonder how I have missed this most fabulous of hotels for so long.  The brochure describes the food as innovative blends of traditional Native American cuisines and so with the desire that comes from well-advised ideas, I ordered the Apricot-Chipotle Glazed Rack of Colorado Lamb accompanied by goat cheese potato puree, asparagus and whole carrots, an olive tapenade and thyme lamb jus. Thick, succulent and delicious were the chops, the soup was the divine, the service was excellent, the company sensational and the setting perfect. The Executive Chef is Patrick Kline and the Chef de Cuisine is Walter Dominguez.   The Hotel Santa Fe and Hacienda & Spa are Located at 1501 Paseo de Peralta, their number is 505.825.9867.  What a wonderful neighborhood!  

 Be sure to take a look at  Homes For Sale In The Neighborhood

Michael’s Minuteof Real Estate

As my tired eyes slid over the last page of the latest market data I was filled with gratitude and would like to thank my family, seller’s and clients for their trust and confidence in me and to everyone at Prudential Santa Fe Real Estate for their support.  It’s been a terrific summer!

My Business to Business Referral

The one E-letter I can’t do without is written by Michael Podolny of The Podolny Group, Inc. - “Make Your Business Serve You”. In his latest, Volume 10, Issue 3, he writes,  ”Flat is the New  Up; How Will It Create  Value and Personal Wealth in a No Growth Environment?”.  Michael has helped thousands of small business owners, he’s excellent at what he does and is a person I can put my name to. If you’d like to read his insights he can be reached at 505.820.0565 and at www.Podolny.com.  Let him know I referred you and he will take extra special care of you.  If you need anything please give me a call at 505.470.4180

I’ll see you in the neighborhood!

Michael Umphrey

Montezuma Street – The Neighborhoods of Santa Fe, New Mexico

All it takes for a little inspiration to compose my weekly blog on the neighborhoods of Santa Fe is to take a walk around the block. The district is heaving with Friday afternoon traffic as I make my way to Montezuma Street, the hub of the Rail Yard District.  Just a ½ block from my office I can stroll through Border’s Books, The Cowgirl Hall of Fame Restaurant (excellent Bar-B-Q  and live music), Pranzo Italian Grill, Café Dominic, Zia Diner, and Kohnami Sushi.  The Jean Cocteau Theatre is now home to the New Mexico Film and Museum Office.  The Sambusco Center is home to 24 shops including Bohdi Bazaar, Teca Tu, Santa Fe Pens and the best shoe store in the world, On Your Feet.  

Be sure to take a look at Homes For Sale In The Neighborhood, Santa Fe, NewMexico

   Indian Market begins this coming weekend, August 22-23^rd.  Held on the Plaza and the surrounding streets downtown, there will be more than 1,100 of the finest American Indian artists offering the most exquisite pieces of jewelry, clay pottery, beadwork, photography, painting, sculpture and more.  Collectors from the all over the world will be on hand the night before when judges will announce the Best of Show followed by the Sneak Preview.  In its 88^th year, Indian Market remains the most prestigious gathering for indigenous artists, patrons and collectors.  There’ll be a Native American Clothing Contest, traditional dances, corn on the cob and fry bread too! Click here for Indian Market Events Schedule

Michael’s Minute of Real Estate

If  you’re not looking to “flip” a house but looking for value and a home in which to live, this market offers the highest opportunity for you and your family.  Inflation is coming.  One doesn’t live with the price, one lives with the payment.  With these historically low interest rates I must say again, “Buy now and thank me later.”

My Business to Business Referral
 Each week I let you know about an outstanding business in Santa Fe.  Let me introduce to you Henry  Sena, owner of Alive Electric, Inc.  Henry and his crew just completed re-wiring our 8,000 square foot, 80 year old historic downtown Santa Fe Prudential office.  Henry is excellent at what he does and is a person I can put my name to.  He can be reached at 505.690.7678.  Let him know I referred you and he will take extra special care of you.  If you need anything, please give me a call at 505.470.4180

Victoria Street, Santa Fe, New Mexico

As if the city were speaking to me, I suddenly grab my camera, speed off in my red MINI Cooper convertible and drive the three blocks along the Santa Fe River to explore the hidden lanes of Santa Fe‘s Eastside neighborhoods.  Today I find myself on Victoria Street, a cul-de-sac dirt road under a canopy of shade trees where one can easily get lost musing about the artists, poets and Bohemians who’ve made this town the artist’s haven that it is. Inspired by the Cinco Pintores, famed straw appliqué artists Alisa and Elisio Rodriguez spent their entire lives creating their unique works in this neighborhood.  For a taste of local history, Santa Fe’s 400^th Anniversary celebration has already begun. 

Be sure to take a look at Homes For Sale In The Neighborhood

 Michael’s Minute of Real Estate

There’s been much uncertainty about tax credits, but they’re actually pretty straightforward.  The federal government will give first-time homebuyers an $8,000 tax credit and this is the best part, it doesn’t have to be paid back unless you sell your home within the first three years.  That’s a lot of free money!  In some states (e.g., California) there’s an additional $10,000 available to 10,000 home buyers of a newly constructed home.  Think about it-you could be eligible for $8,000 from the feds, $10,000 from the state, the lowest interest rates in decades and prices at record lows.  Now might be the best time to buy.

My Business-To-Business Referral

Each week I let you know about an outstanding business in Santa Fe.  Let me introduce to you Robert R. Bailey.   There’s no need to travel to New York or Los Angeles for high-end, beautiful, quality men’s clothing.  Stephen Bailey, Mark Bailey and Gene Atkinson are people I can put my name to.  They are located downtown at 150 Washington Avenue, Suite 105, and on the Web at www.RobertRBailey.com and at 505.983.8803.  Let them know I referred you and they will take excellent care of you.  If you need anything please give me a call at 505.470.4180.

 I’ll see you in the neighborhood.

 Michael Umphrey

Upper Canyon Road – The Neighborhoods of Santa Fe, New Mexico

The sky shines with an evening sun that turns the Sangre de Cristo (Blood of Christ) Mountains the color of watermelon. Tonia and I were married in the gardens of the Randall Davy Audubon Center at the end of Upper Canyon Road.  12 years later our son, Nick, became a camp councilor there. Fed by the snowmelt, three reservoirs serve as some of the city’s drinking water and spill into the Santa Fe River. Just 3 miles from the Santa Fe Plaza and bordering the Santa Fe National Forest is a 190 acre urban preserve run by the Nature Conservancy.  Willow trees and cottonwoods, beaver and birds paint the landscape along the trailhead of the 20-mile Dale Ball Hiking Trail.  A series of ponds and wetlands make this neighborhood first choice for our family’s regular hikes.  

Be sure to take a look at Homes For Sale On Upper Canyon Road, Santa Fe, New Mexico

Michael’s Bit of Real Estate

5 ways to speed up your sale:

1) Together we’ll set the right price. A correctly price home will always draw attention from buyers.
2) Get your house market-ready before you begin showing it so your family can get used to keeping your home clean and beautiful.
3) The more frequently your home is shown, the faster you will find buyer. Keep your home clean and staged so you can be ready to show your home on short notice.
4) Decide in advance what price and conditions you will find satisfactory.
5) Don’t refuse to lower your asking price. Consult with me to keep your home priced realistically.

My Business To Business Referral

Each week I present to you an excellent business.  Let me introduce Dr. Mark Seredowych.  He is a general practitioner and has been our doctor for 10 years.  His care and bedside manners are contagious and he is a person I can put my name to.  Mark can be reached at 505.982.4276 and his address is 1650 Hospital Drive, Suite 200, Santa Fe, NM.  Let him know I referred you and he will take extra special care of you.  If you need me for anything feel free to call my cell at 505.470.4180

I’m looking forward to seeing you in the neighborhood.

Michael

 Downtown – The Neighborhoods of Santa Fe, New Mexico 

Through 2010 the city is celebrating its 400^th anniversary and we’re in the mood to party. My office is in the neighborhood of downtown Santa Fe.  I’m looking out my window at the Santa Fe River and the awe- inspiring Sangre de Cristo Mountain range beyond.  The Plaza is three blocks away.  I’m surrounded by world- class restaurants all of which have been given the highest ratings in Conde Naste, Bon Appétit, Travel & Leisure and many others.  The Lensic Performing Arts Theater, The New Mexico Museum of Art, the Georgia O’Keefe Museum, and the Institute for American Indian Arts are all downtown.   This weekend we celebrate Independence Day with the 33^rd annual Pancakes on the Plaza party, hosted by United Way.  The average high temperature for Santa Fe in July is 82 degrees and New Mexico is called The Land of Enchantment for good reason. I’ll try to save you some pancakes. 

Be sure to visit Properties For Sale In Downtown Santa Fe, New Mexico

Michael’s Bit of Real Estate

I currently have over 10.5 million dollars worth of residential  homes pending and due to close in August. Many residents here make Santa Fe their second home.  I’ll be sending the latest local market data to my buyers and sellers on July 11 which will show why I am urging my clients and customers who want to make Santa Fe their home to take advantage of the low interest rates and the large selection of homes from which to choose.  I’ll find you the house that you want for the price that you want.  If you’d like to receive the report please give me a call at 505.470.4180 I am encouraging you to take the next step. You can thank me later. 

My Business to Business Referral

Each week I present to you an outstanding business.  Let me introduce to you Randy Moya, of WIN Home Inspection.  Randy not only performs an excellent home inspection, he also performs pre-listing inspections designed to help sell your home with less fear of the buyer’s inspection.  Pre-listing inspections now includes a 120 day warranty for the seller.  WIN Home Inspection has been in business for over 9 years and they have performed over 3000 inspections.  Randy’s number is 505.466.7243, his e-mail is www.wini.com/santafe and on the Web at www.wini.com.  Randy is a person I can put my name to.  Let him know I referred you and he will take extra special care of you. If you need anything, please give me a call at 505.470.4180, or send e-mail an e-mail at mumphrey@prusantafe.com. 

 Happy 4^th with wishes for your continued success,

Michael Umphrey

Hondo Hills, The Neighborhoods of Santa Fe, New Mexico

Located in the high desert that is Santa Fe, The Hondo Hills corridor is just a five minute drive south of town and is home to horse lovers from around the world.  Most homeowners live on sites no less than 5 acres and have access to miles of the old ranch lands that are still a part of our history.   The Arroyo Hondo Pueblo is an archaeological site founded in 1300 AD.  The Old Pecos Trail (Route 66) and The Old Santa Fe Trail run directly through the area as do well – preserved wagon ruts.  The diverse and beautiful landscape contains protected wetlands and Ponderosa Pine and can be a wonderland if you explore on foot or on horseback.  The spectacular views are of outrageous sunsets, the Turquoise hills, the Ortiz, The Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the lights of Albuquerque beyond the Sandias. Homes vary from more modest to luxury contemporary ranchettes.  Harry’s Roadhouse is a very popular restaurant and Bobcat Bite Restaurant was just voted Best Burger in America by Bon Appetit magazine. 

 Click here to see: Homes For Sale In Hondo Hills, Santa Fe, New Mexico

Michael’s Bit of Real Estate

“With these prices, you can’t say no!”  Some real estate brokers are reporting that 25 percent of their transactions are coming from foreign buyers, up from previous estimates of 10 percent.  Foreign buyers not only infuse money into our economy, they strengthen and stabilize home prices.  Speaking of Texans, this Thursday, June 11^th, daily air service between Dallas and Santa Fe begins on American Eagle. 

My Business to Business Referral

Each week I present to you an outstanding business.  Let me introduce to you Neal Frank, owner of Santa Fe Pens. Besides selling the most exquisite pens, they have an incredible array of fully restored vintage fountain pens, all of which are guaranteed authentic. I own four treasured pens from Neal’s store that help make the writing of my personal correspondence an anticipated daily event. Neal offers full service for all writing implements including repair and appraisal services.  Neal and Violet are internationally – renowned experts. Their showroom is located in Santa Fe in the Sambusco Market Center at 500 Montezuma Avenue.  Their number is 505.989.4742 and on the Web at  www.santafepens.com. Neal is a person I can put my name to. Let him know I referred you and he will take extra special care of you.  If you need something, please give me a call at 505.470.4180, or send me an Email at mumphrey@prusantafe.com. 

Continued success,

Michael Umphrey

Las Campanas – The Neighborhoods of Santa Fe, New Mexico

As you know, I am high on living in Santa Fe.  This week I am highlighting the neighborhood of Las Campanas.  Just 15 minutes from the downtown Plaza, you’ll find a celebration of possibilities.  On more than 4,700 acres of high-desert landscape are two Jack Nicklaus Signature golf courses, an unparalleled Equestrian Center, a well appointed Spa & Tennis Center and the inviting Hacienda Clubhouse.  Las Campanas builders create modern interpretations of adobe homes that are both striking pieces of sculpture and spectacular living spaces. 

 For a glimpse, be sure to take a look at Properties For Sale In Las Campanas, Santa Fe, New Mexico

Michael’s Bit of Real Estate

Since I am so active in the business I come across some great referrals from time to time.  Casabella Management Services offers the finest array of home tending and concierge services available in Northern New Mexico.  Their impeccable management of your property is the best protection of your real estate asset.  Their goal is to provide you with the ultimate convenience and peace of mind.  Lauren Evans and Jane Larsen are the owners and are two people I can put my name to.  They can be reached at 505.231.4920 or 505.231.0542.  Let them know I referred you and they will take extra special care of you.  If you need something, please give me a call at 505.470,4180 or Email me at mumphrey@prusantafe.com.  

I’m here to serve you!

Michael Umphrey

Price: $532,500

This is arguably the best house in the Arroyo Hondo corridor for this $532,500 price. For starters, the home is on a beautiful, lush view filled 2 acre lot. The walls are hand trowelled plaster….Wait til you see it! Remodeled and added in 2000. www.SantaFe-FineHomes.com

Contract Pending

PRICE – $550,000

If you’re looking for a private, gated estate this home has it all. There are no steps, it’s light and bright with refrigerated air, Sangre views, and fantastic outdoor spaces. It’s close to town, there’s room to add-on, and it has been beautifully remodeled. The entire property is fenced for dogs. www.SantaFe-FineHomes.com