Editor's Note: New Mexico real estate is a strong seller's market at the moment, says Darlene Streit, expert real estate agent in the area in this Q&A with Haute Residence
What do you ask clients to not have displayed when showing their home for sale?
I advise them to avoid too much clutter and personal objects and mementos, so people can focus on seeing and feeling the home. Otherwise, potential buyers can get distracted or get a less than positive impression of the home.
Photo Credit: Daniel Nadelbach
How did the second quarter of 2020 real estate perform in New Mexico?
Since we opened up after New Mexico's COVID-19 stay-at-home orders, the flood gates have burst open. We had one of our best quarters ever, due to pent-up demand from the shutdown and with buyers wanting to move here from larger cities. It has been very, very busy in ALL price ranges, high and low, which is somewhat unusual. But of course great to see.
Is it currently a buyer or seller’s market in New Mexico?
Mostly, a seller's market due to lower than normal inventory – but it's all about pricing the home right. The market here is still very price-sensitive: as long as the home has good features and is priced right for the market, it will sell quickly.
What do you love about the housing market in Santa Fe and New Mexico overall?
We live in such a beautiful part of the country, and Santa Fe is truly a unique destination in all of the world, so it's easy to be passionate about the quality of life here with clients. And that is what is becoming more and more important to people as they reassess their priorities during the pandemic – healthy living, safety, and quality of life. New Mexico is a gorgeous state, and Santa Fe especially offers a wonderful, spacious alternative. We have nearby mountains for hiking and skiing, incredible cultural events, world class restaurants and a cosmopolitan vibe, yet it still feels like a small, friendly community. I think the market is very strong here right now, though we have low inventory which may become less and less as we move through 2020. But all in all, there's so much to love about Santa Fe that I believe there will always be a demand and much interest in becoming part of the community here.
For more on the New Mexico real estate market, contact Darlene Streit by clicking "Learn More" above.
