Are you searching for Taos real estate? Unlike most cities around the country, many homes in Taos have an incredibly unique look. Built with the historic adobe style of architecture, individuals who embrace Southwest interior and exterior design will fall head over heels for these properties. Even around the West, few places have such one-of-a-kind appeal and charm. If you are planning to relocate to Taos, there are expert strategies that you can use to find the perfect home for you and your family. Check out the top eight things to look for when searching for homes in this awe-inspiring town.
1. Urban or rural amenities
Taos may be a relatively small city, occupying just over six square miles of land, but it features distinct neighborhoods. Each locale boasts its own set of perks and amenities. The area that works best for you will largely depend on your individual preferences. Before making an offer on a home, take the time to get to know Taos and its neighborhoods. Close to the town’s main road, Paseo Del Pueblo Sur, are numerous places to shop, dine, and run errands. This bustling part of town also features breathtaking mountain views, so there’s no risk of missing out on the gorgeous scenery. Locals living near the main road in Taos have immediate access to places such as the Taos Mesa Brewing Tap Room, Kit Carson Park, the Downtown Taos Historic District, the Harwood Museum of Art, and dozens of other hotspots.
If you prefer a more rural lifestyle, plenty of communities are nestled far away from the hustle and bustle of commercial districts. You can find ample acreage and interior square footage, along with stunning scenic views across all outer parts of town. Individuals residing near Highway 64 also have prime access to the South Boundary Trail and the Cerrito Colorado mountain peak.
2. Exterior home styles
One of the main things Taos real estate is known for is its adobe-style homes. This unique architectural style has been used for thousands of years and is seen throughout the area. However, this isn’t the only home style you’ll encounter in town. Plenty of mid-century, cabin-style, and other single-family properties are available. As you plan to move to the area, take time to explore all of the available exterior home styles in Taos. Doing so will help you narrow your focus as you browse available properties.
3. Ideal square footage
Another major factor to consider when buying a home is interior square footage. Around Taos, there are residential properties that are compact and efficient, and others that are sprawling and luxurious. What works best for you depends on how you plan to use the home — there are no wrong answers! To get started, imagine how you’ll use this home over a number of years. Will this serve as a vacation home? If it is your primary property, will you plan on expanding your family or have kids leaving for school? Decide what your life will look like over the coming years to choose an amount of interior square footage that can grow with you.
4. Storage space
A commonly overlooked consideration when buying a home is its total storage space. Consider the space provided by closets, outdoor storage sheds, garages, kitchen cabinets, and beyond. Decide how many of your belongings you plan to take with you, and estimate what new items you’ll be buying upon move-in (e.g., new pots and pans, lawn equipment). If you aren’t sure how to determine if a home has enough storage space for your needs, assess the exact number of storage cabinets, closets, and so on that you currently have. Estimate how much space you’d have left after removing any items and adding your anticipated purchases. From there, compare the storage offerings of each home you are considering. Why go through these measures? Taking this extra step can help prevent you from having to rent an off-site storage facility for your belongings.
5. Kitchen size and style
If you love to cook and entertain, your kitchen will be a vital part of any new home you purchase. With a brand new property, you have the opportunity to find the kitchen space of your dreams — whatever that looks like.
Draft a list of must-haves for your new kitchen. These can include a kitchen island, a gas range, a certain cabinet style, an open concept, and much more. Feel free to break your list into your non-negotiables and wants. In the event that you find two ultra-perfect kitchens, these lists can help you make the best possible choice.
6. Total number of bathrooms and bedrooms
Regarding the configuration of your new house, one of the final priorities should be the number of bathrooms and bedrooms that are included. The number you have in mind is often non-negotiable, especially if you have children.
Even if you think you have the correct number of bathrooms and bedrooms in mind, consider how your space will evolve over the coming years. Do you perhaps want a guest bedroom for visitors? If your grown children are moving out, will you need the full number of bedrooms you’ve estimated? Envision the future to ensure you select a configuration that works for your life.
7. Required repairs and upgrades
How much time and money are you willing to invest in repairs and upgrades to your new property? As with every other consideration, there are no right or wrong answers. Some individuals prefer having home projects to complete, while others want a turn-key ready house. When searching for a new Taos home, make sure you have a clear answer in mind.
8. Scenic views
Throughout Taos, there are magnificent views of the landscape. Towering mountains and the desert terrain make this area one of the more breathtaking parts of New Mexico.
Almost everywhere you look, you can enjoy scenic views. Although this is the case, consider how much of a scenic view you’d like for your own home. Having this piece of information can be incredibly helpful when narrowing down your search area.
Have peace of mind when putting your trust in the best Taos real estate agents at The Hoffmann Team. Ranked as the #1 team in their MLS and rated in the top one percent of Coldwell Banker realtors internationally, you can rest assured that you’ll have an unparalleled experience. Reach out to the team today to begin your journey.
Recommended reading: Buying a Home in Taos, NM
