The economic downturn that began in 2007 continues to affect the worldwide economy today. One of the largest industries hurt by the downturn and still struggling to find a bottom is the housing sector. There are, however, just a few exceptions and one of the most remarkable of these is the Taos, NM real estate market. Values in this delightfully distinct high desert town have held almost steady the past few years and are, in fact, currently still higher than the national average of comparative residences.

With an average of 280 days of sunny weather annually, along with low humidity and impressive vistas, National Geographic has named Taos as number thirteen of the 133 best places to visit. It’s a sanctuary for retirees and travelers alike, as both permanent residences, as attested by the listings of Taos real estate for sale, and as vacation rentals.

Taos condos are especially desirable for ski holidays; Taos Ski Valley was branded the second best ski area in the country, according to Travel Guidepost. White-water rafting in the Taos Box region is a major draw for summer visitors, while the 15th Century Pueblo, Kit Carson Park, and the numerous museums and art galleries attract international tourists throughout the year.

By far one of the most interesting aspects of Taos, NM real estate is the great variety of architectural styles. Old adobe buildings like the Taos Pueblo have been continuously inhabited for six centuries, as opposed to the forward-looking Earth ships which were conceived locally and are proliferating in the area. Many of these interesting houses can be rented for short periods or found in the listings of Taos real estate for sale.

The majority of the eco-responsible homes in this area are completely off the grid, producing their own electrical power from sun and wind, their water from rain and snow melt and their heating and cooling from the earth itself. Residents grow their own food both inside the dwellings and on the grounds surrounding them, irrigating crops with recycled water through a series of filtering systems.

The eclectic character of the city and vicinity attracts both the gregarious and those who prefer to be left alone. The breathtaking vistas and salubrious climate have been inspiring artists and writers since the original inhabitants embellished their adobe pueblos with artwork depicting the surrounding mountains and native wildlife. Since that time, Taos has developed into a thriving artists’ colony, inspiring such well-known names as D.H. Lawrence and Georgia O’Keeffe to do some of their most outstanding work. The large number of galleries in and around Taos attests to its ongoing appeal to those with a creative bent.

Unique in so many ways, it’s no wonder that many visitors to Taos opt to remain and buy permanent or vacation homes. Aside from the distinctive ambiance, prudent buyers know that Taos, NM real estate is a smart investment that will more than likely continue to maintain its value well into the foreseeable future.

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