The Eby Team Blog

Welcome to the Eby Team Blog

2015-03-21T15:31:00.001-06:00

Welcome to the Eby Team Blog. Our first post is a slideshow where we share our favorite snapshots with you. This post will by default always remain at the top as we add photos. The regular blog starts below the slideshow. Enjoy our blog, and please leave your comments!

Mountain States Cup Chile Challenge at Angel Fire

2011-06-04T14:21:00.002-06:00

Angel Fire is a stop on the 2011 circuit for the Mountain States Cup Mountain Bike Races. Disciplines include the Cross Country, STXC, 4X, DH and SD. We have a great turn out for this event this weekend, and the weather is beautiful.

VACATION RENTALS STRONG GOING INTO PEAK SEASON: NUMBER OF OWNERS WHO COVER BULK OF THEIR MORTGAGE WITH RENTAL INCOME INCREASING

2011-05-31T10:49:00.002-06:00

48 percent of owners who financed their vacation home report they’re able to cover more than 75 percent of their mortgage by renting it to travelers, up from 38 percent of owners just one year ago

Nearly a quarter of owners (22 percent) say the increase in foreclosed homes has prompted them to bargain hunt for vacation real estate

72 percent of owners say bookings for this summer are the same or better than last summer; 23 percent have increased vacation rental rates this year

AUSTIN, TEXAS, May 25, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Vacation homes aren’t just for rest and relaxation; they are also a satisfying, moneymaking venture for many owners. HomeAway, Inc. – the world’s leading online vacation rental marketplace – finds in its latest “HomeAway Vacation Rental Marketplace Report” that 81 percent of vacation home owners who rent their homes to travelers are satisfied with the overall experience.

The satisfaction may be attributed to the extra income vacation rental owners generate, which contributes to mortgage payments and other expenses. In fact, 48 percent of owners who financed their vacation home report they’re able to cover more than 75 percent of their mortgage by renting it to travelers, up from 38 percent of owners one year ago. Nearly two-thirds (65 percent) of owners earn enough to cover at least 50 percent of their mortgage. Interestingly, 31 percent of vacation rental owners don’t have a mortgage.

Extra Income, Interaction with Travelers Drives Satisfaction

With the ability to pay off their mortgage, it’s no surprise that 63 percent of owners say generating extra income is what they enjoy most about renting their second home to travelers. On the other hand, 14 percent say sharing their vacation destination with guests is the second best aspect of renting out their home.

“Making some extra money is certainly a perk, but many vacation rental owners also find sharing their home and destination with others to be extremely rewarding – they truly care about the experience their guests have in their homes,” says Brian Sharples, chief executive officer of HomeAway®.

Rental Income Goes Toward Property Improvements, Mortgage Payments

One example of the care vacation rental owners put into the overall guest experience is they’re putting the rental income they generate back into their properties, whether it’s investing in home improvements or upgrades.

HOW VACATION RENTAL OWNERS USE THE INCOME GENERATED BY RENTING TO TRAVELERS
Vacation home improvements and upgrades – 62%
Mortgage payments – 52%
Everyday living expenses – 16%
Discretionary spending – 14%
Future savings – 11%

Lower Prices Drive Vacation Real Estate Purchases

With lower real estate prices in many parts of the country – some existing vacation rental owners are exploring the idea of buying a second vacation home.

About 15 percent of existing vacation home owners say they bought a vacation home because of the decline in real estate prices and another 12 percent said they are interested in buying due to the lower prices – a finding that is largely consistent with the National Association of Realtor's findings in its 2011 Investment and Vacation Home Buyers Survey. The survey found that 38 percent of first-time vacation home buyers decided to purchase a vacation property last year primarily because of low real estate prices.

Nearly a quarter of vacation home owners (22 percent) say the increase in foreclosed homes has prompted them to bargain hunt for vacation real estate, and five percent have even purchased a foreclosed home within the past two years.

Strong Summer Ahead for Vacation Rental Owners

According to the report, 72 percent of vacation rental owners say bookings for the summer are about the same or higher than last summer. In addition, 59 percent say their rental rates are about the same for this summer compared with last summer, whereas 23 percent say they’ve increased their rental rates.

While some owners have concerns that rising gas prices and increased airline tickets will impact summer travel, only 48 percent of owners feel they need to offer special deals or incentives to attract renters this summer, compared with 55 percent of owners who offered deals last year and 66 percent two years ago.

There’s good news, in particular, for those who own vacation homes or are looking to buy in markets where traveler demand for vacation rentals is on the rise. New Orleans has been in the top 10 destinations with the largest year-over-year percent increase in inquiries from travelers looking to rent vacation homes for the past four quarters, while Chicago has made the list for the past three quarters. Amelia Island, Fla., and Wimberly, Texas, have made the list the last two quarters.

Vacation-home market faces long road to recovery

2011-05-26T10:54:00.002-06:00

This is an interesting article I saw the other day, looks like a continued buyers market here in Angel Fire also...

By Rob Reuteman, CNBC.comPosted 5/8/2011 2:00 PM

The buyers' market for vacation homes is likely to continue for years, with activity largely limited to buyers with enough cash to circumvent a tighter, post-recession lending environment.

Thirty-six percent of all vacation-home buyers in 2010 did not use a mortgage — versus 29 percent the year before — while more than half of them financed less that 70 percent of the purchase price, according to the National Association of Realtors. Of those who bought a second home as a rental investment, 59 percent paid cash.

"Mortgage lending in the past three years has been pretty rough, with much higher underwriting standards," says Paul Bishop, NAR's vice president for research. "People drawn into the market at this point are buyers with substantial cash, or people not dealing with a mortgage. If your credit is strong and you put down a sizeable down payment, lenders are more interested."

Vacation homes remain the hardest-hit sector of the U.S. real estate market.... Read the rest of the article at the link above.

What's Good for the Goose is Good for the Gander and their Goslings.

2011-05-25T14:11:00.002-06:00

Momma goose has found the perfect home for her family at the Angel Fire Country Club Golf Course. I took this on 5/25/2011. Can we help you and your Gander and Goslings find the perfect home in Angel Fire? We have some of the best deals in years, give us call or a honk! The Eby Group.

Cabin Listing Featured on Msn.com

2011-05-19T16:41:00.001-06:00

As featured on msn.com, Cool off in New Mexico, 12 Getaway Cabins under $200,000

Location: Eagle Nest, N.M.
Price: $134,900
Eagle Nest, in northern New Mexico, was founded in the 1930s by folks from the Texas Panhandle who wanted to escape the heat of Texas summers. The community sits at 8,800 feet, where the pines stretch up to 90 feet high and offer privacy and coolness.

This quirky cabin was built in the early '40s and expanded in the '70s. The focal point of the 1,400-square-foot cabin is the fireplace in the middle of the great room. One bedroom and bath are on the main level; another bedroom is upstairs. Nearby are Angel Fire Ski Area and great trout fishing at Eagle Nest Lake State Park.

Angel Fire Resort Revamps Mountain Bike Park to Attract Riders of All Levels

2011-05-18T10:42:00.003-06:00

ANGEL FIRE, NM – Angel Fire Bike Park, has gone through an expansion and improvement this spring and starting May 26, the Park will offer over 29 miles of new and enhanced trails for riders of all abilities. In an effort to appeal to the beginner and intermediate rider, the Angel Fire Bike Park has expanded and reworked the trails so beginners will have a safe and controlled environment to learn the sport, improve their basic skills and fine-tune the right technique for difficult sections. The Bike Park also boasts the longest season in the Rockies with all trails open from May 26 – October 16. Along with the revamped terrain the resort is offering deep discounts on passes and lodging packages, creating the most affordable Bike Park in the country.

Located in Angel Fire, New Mexico, Angel Fire Bike Park is a premiere mountain bike destination in the southern Rocky Mountains. The Bike Park offers chairlift-accessed terrain for downhill, cross-country and all-mountain styles of mountain bike riding, including beginner, intermediate and advanced/ expert trails. The Bike Park is an ideal location to learn the sport as it will offer riding clinics, bike rentals and repairs, guided tours, skills parks, freestyle features, special events and bike-friendly, slopeside lodging.

“With this revamp, Angel Fire Bike Park has the perfect terrain for every skill level, from the novice to the expert,” explains Hogan Koesis, Bike Park Manager, Angel Fire Resort. “We want more people to ride this mountain and we think they can do it at a lower price. Value is king in this economy and that’s why we’re now offering the most affordable Bike Park in the country.”

Special discounted prices this season include:.
• Daily rate $22
• The Gravity Pass $169 – a season pass that offers unlimited chairlift rides from March – October, and three free days at Trestle Bike Park in Winter Park, CO.
• Stay & Ride Package – as low as $49 per person, per night. Includes lodging at the base at Angel Fire Resort and single-day lift pass.

Whether it’s easily cruising down one of the new XC trails or taking on one of the technical root sections, drops or jumps riders can try something new on every decent. At an altitude of 10,600 feet bikers will have access to one of the largest lift-access mountains in North America.

As the site of the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup, NORBA Nationals, NCAA Collegiate Mountain Bike Championships and Mountain States Cup Championships the Angel Fire Bike Park will host a series of events this summer season as well.

CHILE CHALLENGE
ANGEL FIRE NEW MEXICO
JUNE 3, 4, 5 — DH, 4X, SD, XC, STXC
The Mountain States Cup has set the stage for 2011 with new venues, more endurance stage racing, new DH courses and more of the same racing you have come to love from the MSC.

OSO HIGH MOUNTAIN BIKE XC RACE
NEW MEXICO OFF-ROAD SERIES – NMORS #7
JUNE 25
Each series XC race will be an independent qualifying event for USAC MTB Nationals. The final overall series standings will be used to determine 2011 USAC NM MTB State Champions.

ANGEL FIRE’S 2ND ANNUAL FREERIDE FEST
AUGUST 2O
Angel Fire is going to be hosting the 2nd Annual Freeride Festival. Free beer, gear and a movie premier.

RED BULL FINAL DESCENT
OCTOBER 15
The last mountain bike event of the season, the Red Bull Final Descent is an intense 12-hour endurance downhill mountain bike challenge for sport, expert and pro-class mountain bike riders.

Vacation Home Sales Fare Better than Others

2011-04-19T12:44:00.000-06:00

AUSTIN, TEXAS, March 30, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — While the overall residential real estate market is still down, sales of vacation homes fared better than sales of primary residences and investment properties in 2010. In fact, some consumers found low real estate prices, attractive mortgage rates and the potential for price appreciation compelling enough reasons to buy more than half a million vacation homes last year, according to proprietary research commissioned by HomeAway, Inc. as part of the National Association of Realtor’s (NAR) 2011 Investment and Vacation Home Buyers Survey.

The research found 38% of vacation home buyers decided to purchase a vacation property last year primarily because of low real estate prices. And 2010 proved a good year to buy, according to the NAR survey. Median sales prices for vacation properties dropped 11.2 percent from $169,000 in 2009 to $150,000 in 2010.

Other vacation home buyers cited the following factors as the most important reason to take the plunge into vacation home ownership last year, according to HomeAway® research:

Wanted a personal family retreat (27%)
Potential for price appreciation (12%)
Low mortgage rates (11%)
Other (13%)
“Vacation homes are more attainable than ever for consumers of all ages, thanks to attractive prices and the fact that people can rent them to travelers to help offset the costs,” says Brian Sharples, chief executive officer of HomeAway. “As the NAR report shows, about four in 10 buyers last year were under the age of 45.”

Vacation Home Owners Believe Rental Income Can Help Offset Mortgage on Second Home

Although few vacation home buyers cited rental income as the most important factor in their decision to buy last year, about seven in 10 buyers (69%) said it influenced their decision.

In fact, nearly all (94%) of vacation home buyers say they do plan to rent their property within the next 12 months to either long-term or short-term renters or a combination of the two, and 60 percent of buyers believe they’ll make enough rental income to cover at least half of their mortgage.

Of those buyers, about 44 percent plan to make their vacation homes available for rent between one and eight weeks over the course of the next year; 42 percent plan to rent their properties between nine and 26 weeks per year; and 15 percent plan to rent their homes between 27 and 52 weeks per year.

Vacation home buyers are willing to rent their property to more than one type of guest. The vast majority (74 percent) of people who plan to rent their property to short-term renters say they’ll rent the home to vacationers, while 36 percent plan to rent to business travelers and 23 percent plan to rent to other tenants, such as college students or people who are relocating to the area.

5 Things to Know About Buying a Vacation Home

2011-04-05T12:32:00.002-06:00

(MONEY Magazine) -- Home prices continue to fall and there are some great deals for buyers looking for a vacation home. Here are five things to know before taking the leap.
1. Now is a good time to pounce
In many second-home hot spots, prices are still close to their five-year lows. According to Fiserv, single-home prices in Napa, Calif., for example, are down 47% from their 2006 peak; the average house in Ocean City, N.J., costs 24% less than it did in 2006. And though a few hard-hit markets like Las Vegas, Tucson, and Miami could fall a bit further, most economists believe the biggest declines are behind us. Meanwhile, sales in places such as Myrtle Beach, S.C., and Palm Beach saw double-digit increases last year. "Now prices are starting to move up," says Myrtle Beach broker Rod Smith.

2. A home is a better deal if it's rentable
You may think you'll keep the retreat all to yourself, but it's still smart to shop as if you're going to rent the place out. That's because a home's rental potential can affect its resale value, says Fredericksburg, Texas, agent Catherine Jeffrey.
Before you bid on a house, make sure the homeowners association or township allows short-term rentals (many do not). And keep in mind that renters prefer homes with at least one bathroom for every bedroom, says Jeffrey.

3. Don't count on rental income to pay your bills
The typical property rents out just 17 weeks a year, says Christine Karpinski of vacation-rental site HomeAway.com. Plus, you'll need to pay for cleaning, maintenance, insurance, and maybe management fees (at least 15% of income).
To get a handle on a property's income potential, ask a management company for a history of rental dates and rates for homes comparable to the one you're considering. If your monthly loan payment is less than or equal to one peak week of rent, you're likely to break even, says Karpinski.

4. Your loan rate depends on how you use the house
Lenders have raised standards across the board, but they're giving extra scrutiny to vacation homes. Use the property primarily as a second home and you'll pay about the same mortgage rate as you would on a primary residence, says HSH Associates vice president Keith Gumbinger. If you need rental income to qualify for the loan, however, the house is treated as investment property -- so you'll have to fork over as much as 25% for the down payment and pay up to one percentage point more in interest.

5. Tax benefits can be sweet
Rent the house out for two weeks or less and you won't have to report a cent of income to the IRS -- and you can still deduct property taxes and mortgage interest.
Stay there for less than two weeks or 10% of rental days, whichever is greater, and you can deduct operating costs -- everything from cleaning fees and maintenance to linens and repairs -- in addition to interest and property tax. Use and rent a lot? You'll have to allocate the write-offs between personal and rental use, which gets tricky, says Rick Shapiro, a CPA in West Hartford, Conn. So talk to your tax guy before you buy.

Vacation Home Prices Make for Bargains

2011-04-04T13:04:00.001-06:00

NEW YORK (CNNMoney) -- Been dreaming of a vacation home? Somewhere warm to get away? Or maybe a cabin in the woods? Prices are right if you can afford it.
The median price of a vacation home was $150,000 in 2010, down 11.2% from a year earlier, the National Association of Realtors reported Wednesday. In contrast, the national median for primary residences fell only 4.5% in 2010, according to NAR.
"The fall in prices has opened opportunities for more families to enter the second-home market," said Lawrence Yun, NAR's chief economist.
Still, vacation homes accounted for just 10% of all sales last year, and investment properties made up another 17%.

Those percentages were little changed for 2010 as home sales declined across the board. There were 543,000 vacation homes sold, down from 553,000 in 2009; investment purchases fell to 867,000 from 940,000.
One factor depressing sales was the difficulty in getting mortgages due to tight credit markets. Buyers often did an end-around this problem by paying cash. Nearly 40% of vacation home sales were cash deals, while nearly 60% of investment deals were handled that way.

Those buyers who did get mortgages brought big down payments to the closing tables, according to Walter Molony, a NAR spokesman. For vacation homes, the average was 30%, far more than the standard 20% down. Investment buyers with financing paid an average of 32% down.

Many of the second homebuyers targeted distressed properties. About 17% of investment purchases were foreclosures, while vacation homebuyers chose distressed prosperities 10% of the time, NAR said. Only 10% of families buying primary residences last year went with foreclosures.

Enchanted Christmas

2010-12-02T12:12:00.003-07:00

An Enchanted Christmas, a must attend event kicks off the Christmas season in fine fashion Saturday (Dec. 4) at the Angel Fire Country Club beginning at 6 p.m. Angel Fire Homes and the Eby Group has a tree being auctioned off for the Stray Hearts Animal Shelter in Taos. Enchanted Christmas will ultimately benefit many local not-for-profit organizations but on the ticket during the event is music, dancing, food and a silent Christmas tree auction.

The event will be sure to get you in the Christmas spirit with a gala of activities including a very special treat in The Damn Band, a local favorite cranking up the dancing music beginning at 7 p.m. The event is simple. Businesses sponsor a Christmas tree and decorate it to be auctioned off. The proceeds will benefit a local charity or not-for-profit organization of their choice. Trees are already set up at the Country Club so you can get a sneak peak if you wish. The trees will be sold in a silent auction the night of the event and delivered the next day to the bidding winners. Hors d’oeurves will be served from 6 to 7 p.m. and the dancing to The Damn Band begins at 7 p.m. and runs to 10 p.m. A cash bar is available to help get your dancing legs started. Those who purchased trees can take them home the night of the event or they will be delivered for free the next day. Tickets can be purchased at the Angel Fire Visitors Center or the Chronicle office prior to the event or at the door. The Ebys will be there, and we hope to see you too!

Eby Group Moves Back to the Gold Creek

2010-08-18T14:59:00.005-06:00

The Eby Group and Angel Fire Homes have relocated their office to the Gold Creek Condominiums. This is a full circle for the Eby Group as Kyle Eby and his wife Barbara previously managed the Gold Creek Condos from 1982 until 1999. We also have a number of beautiful two and three bedroom condos available for rent in the Gold Creek by the night. Please stop by and see us and we will give you a tour of our wonderful new facility!

Overdue Blog

2010-05-29T13:44:00.003-06:00

Wow, it just occured to me I have not blogged in a long time. Took me a while to get in summer mode, but summer is here and it is beautiful! Lots going on this weekend, but the biggest event is the Grand Opening of the new Angel Fire Country Club. Barb and I were among the first last Friday to attend the soft opening, and the new clubhouse is beautiful! Tonight we will be there for the Jimmy Stadler band, try and join us!

Kyle.

Shovel Races and Lots of Snow

2010-02-08T14:00:00.004-07:00

The Shovel Races made a blazing comeback to Angel Fire Resort this weekend with thrills and spills. The races are now production only, no modified class, but everyone had a great time and many competitors joined in the fun. We also picked up another foot of snow last night giving Angel Fire our best conditions of the season!

We have great lodging deals for Presidents Weekend so come on up and catch some air. Here is a picture of Austin Eby catching some air this weekend at the terrain park....

Beautiful Ski Day in Angel Fire!

2010-01-30T12:05:00.003-07:00

The sun is out, the skies are a rich cloudless blue, and the snow is deep and powdery. It is definitely a great day to hit the slopes, or to go for a drive and look at some of our great real estate buys here in Angel Fire. One example is our Gold Dust C3 listing. This lovely two bedroom two and a half bath condo is located just 1.5 blocks from the Chile Express Lift and has rare views of the ski area. This one won't last as it is priced at $99,000. We also have a fantastic home by the golf course on two lots, with three bedrooms and 2.5 baths. this home has Wheeler Peak views, and many extras. With 2600 square feet this home also will not last at $379,000. So when your not on the slopes stop by our office at the Mini Mart Plaza here in Angel Fire and we will show you some great deals.

Kyle.

Snowing in Angel Fire

2010-01-28T13:57:00.002-07:00

It is snowing again in Angel Fire. We have been picking up quite a bit of snow over the last two weeks and conditions on the Ski Mountain are excellent. Conditions are also excellent for picking up some great real estate buys! One exaample is our listing, Snowfire 302A, in the highly desirable A bulinding at Snowfire Condominiums. The sellers of this beautiful three bedroom three bath condo just dropped the price to $190,000. This is an excellent buy for a condo with great rental potential. Give us a call at 888-308-3917 or stop by our office at the Mini Mart Plaza here in Angel Fire to view this fantastic opportunity. View more details online at our website http://www/vacationhomesandcondos.com.

Kyle.

Night Skiing Started December 19, 2009

2009-12-21T14:19:00.003-07:00

Come up to Angel Fire and try out our new night skiing. Angel Fire is the only ski area in New Mexico with night skiing, and it has been proving to be a big hit! The crowds at night have been amazing. Night skiing will be going on every night all through the Holidays. Come up and join us where apres ski in Angel Fire has a whole other meaning!

Kyle.

Two New Vacation Rentals and Night Skiing

2009-12-17T16:51:00.003-07:00

We have added two new Vacation Rental properties. 29 Taos Drive is a newer home in a beautiful private setting. The home offers gorgeous wooded views, tasteful furnishings, and is equipped to sleep 10 people. There are two gas fireplaces, large gourmet kitchen, and lots of outdoor decks. There is a king in the master, a queen in each of the other two bedrooms, and queen sleeper sofas in the living room and loft. All linens and kitchen utensils are provided. The master bath features a jacuzzi bath. Our other new rental is Gold Dust Condo C3, a two bedroom two and a half bath unit that sleeps six. Chack both of these and our other rentals out by clicking here. Also join us at the Village Haus Saturday night for the celebration of Angel Fire's first night of Night Skiing! See you there...

Kyle.

Angel Fire Homes Property Management

2009-12-03T15:45:00.008-07:00

The Eby Group is now offering Property Management and Vacation Rentals under the name Angel Fire Homes Property Management. We are specializing in only premier properties and we our proud to announce our first property, Skyview Way.

The Skyview Way Home is a brand new 5 Bedroom 4.5 Bath Angel Fire, New Mexico Executive Vacation Rental Home. This is one of the very nicest homes available for vacation rentals in all of Angel Fire. This home has 3400 Square Feet of gorgeous views looking out over the Valley of the Utes and Western Mountain Range.

The home features top of the line furnishings and decor, gourmet kitchen, 2 fireplaces, private outdoor hot tub, gas grill, 2 living areas, large 2 car garage, lots of deck areas with views, and for handicapped or elderly guests an elevator that services all three floors.

The home will sleep up to 12 people in beds, and offers lots of stretch out spaces for large families and groups. The home is situated on over two acres in a very private mountian setting. The home is just now being offered for rental for the first time, and is available for all Christmas Dates. For more information on this fantastic home please call Kyle, Jud or Barbara at 888-308-3917 or our cell at 956-802-8952. More pictures available upon request. Christmas dates will not last.....

Night Skiing in Angel Fire!

2009-11-21T12:53:00.004-07:00

The lights on Exhibition, the big front ski run here in Angel Fire, came on last night for the first time! That is right, Angel Fire is the only ski area in New Mexico to offer night skiing this year. Crews have been busy all during the fall installing the lights, and what a scene they made last night with Exhibition all lit up and the snowmaking guns blazing. Angel Fire is really going to standout this year, and we have other great changes including s spiffy new bar at the hotel, and of course the Country Club which is looking just beautiful. The Eby Group also offers lodging in Angel Fire, ranging from economy to luxury. So make your plans now by calling The Eby Group now at 888-308-3917.

Kyle.

Old Fashioned Wood Stoves and Green Chile Stew

2009-11-14T15:15:00.004-07:00

We spent the day at our Eagle Nest office at the Laguna Vista. It is a cold and snowy day, so we headed across the street to explore the Cottonwood Lodge and Spirit Wind Gallery where we met the very nice owners Stacie and Bill Ewing. They were having a cooking demonstration on one of the restored antique stoves they sell. We sat down and had some fantastic old fasioned Green Chile Stew and Cheese Cornbread, yum! The Ewings are making this a Saturday tradition, so if your in Eagle Nest on a Saturday at noon you need to stop and meet the Ewings and see their incredible store. In the picture of us you can see their personal stove in the background, I hope they don't sell the Garland Stove before I can save enough money to buy it!

Kyle.

New Office for the Eby Group

2009-11-04T17:15:00.003-07:00

Wow, been so busy I haven't blogged in a while. The Eby Team has moved! We are now with Angel Fire Homes, and have three great locations to serve our Customers here in Angel Fire and in Eagle Nest. Please come by and see our new office at the Mini Mart Plaza. We will be offering a fuller line of services ranging from Real Estate, Construction, Lodging, and Home Care Services. Let us know what we can do for you!

Kyle.

2009-10-26T13:20:00.008-06:00

It snowed 10 inches last night here in Angel Fire. Everyone is psyched about the coming ski season. It was 13 degrees this morning when I left the house. We have another 10 or more inches forecast for Tuesday night. Enjoy all the photos, and get ready for ski season by calling the Eby Team for your reservations now...

Kyle.

2009-10-21T13:10:00.004-06:00

It snowed last night in Angel Fire! This is something to get excited about considering all the exciting things we have going on this upcoming ski season. First off Angel Fire Resort has added night skiing to our lengthy list of activities. The resort plans to light up 50 acres for fun after dark, including Exhibition, a favorite front side run along with Ridge Run, Valley and Dreamcatcher. A set of freestyle park features including jumps, rails and fun boxes will be accessible during the evening hours, as well as the timed NASTAR race course and the very popular Polar Coaster tubing hill. With night skiing I know I will never see my son at all...

Other improvments include a revamped hotel, and the Country Club will be completed and open by May. All of this makes Angel Fire the place to go this year. In case you did not know the Eby Team offers vacation rental lodging in Angel Fire. We own and operate Tripbeat Vacation Rentals. We offer a large selection of nightly rental homes and condos, and you can either book online or call and let an Eby help you plan your Angel Fire trip. Till next time...

Kyle.

We have an Apple of a Deal for You!

2009-09-29T11:35:00.007-06:00

Barb and I went to see our friends at Graff Farm in Guadalupita this weekend and picked a bunch of beautiful apples from their orchard along Coyote Creek. The weather has been beautiful for the past five days with warm temps and clear blue New Mexico skies.

Picking perfect apples is a lot like picking the perfect real estate, there are a lot of pickings in the neighborhood but only a few are a perfect apple. One example of a great pick is our new listing at Snowfire. Unit 302A is in the highly desirable A building and is a large bright two bedroom plus loft with three full baths. The unit has over 1700 square feet, fireplace, furnished, and has very nice views. This pick is priced to sell at $199,000. Contact the Eby Team and we will show you this apple!

Kyle & Barb

Benchmark 313, Big Price Reduction! $160,000

2009-09-22T15:07:00.002-06:00

The seller of Benchmark 313 has dropped the price by $9,000 to $160,000. This is an incredible buy for an Angel Fire 3 bedroom condo. This condo has million dollar views, and tremendous rental potential. Contact Kyle Eby at 956-802-8952 to view this fantastic opportunity!

Alpine Gardens 8, New Listing!

2009-09-08T15:15:00.004-06:00

Barb and I want to thank Ed and Bobbie for letting us help them find the perfect new home and also for letting us market their condo, Alpine Gardens 8. Alpine Gardens 8 is a lovely 2 bedroom 1 3/4 bath ground floor, single story condo. The unit features a covered front porch with very nice views. New washer/dryer, dishwasher, refrigerator/freezer, and range. The unit is being sold completely furnished and turnkey equipped for nightly rentals. Priced to sell at $119,000.00. Contact an Eby Team member today for a showing or view all details online at http://vacationhomesandcondos.com/listings/res/164037/index.html?sort=

Kyle.

Angel Fire is Under Attack!

2009-09-03T11:28:00.003-06:00

SEPTEMBER 11-13, 2009, 2009 PARANORMAL SYMPOSIUM AT ANGEL FIRE

The Aliens are coming!!! This three-day weekend event will feature a variety of headline speakers discussing UFOs, aliens and abductions, Area 51, ghosts, mythical monsters and Native American legends, as well as psychics and other paranormal experts.

You've seen them on TV. You've read their books. You've followed their investigations. Now meet the paranormal experts in an informal arena where you can ask them questions, discuss their research, activities and experiences and see their artifacts.

Participate in mini-seminars, schedule private readings, enjoy cultural ceremonies and music, learn about your past lives, view a variety of paranormal videos in the film festival room and visit vendor booths offering Symposium memorabilia and other paranormal-related products. This should be quite an interesting weekend, hope to see you there. Click here for a complete event schedule!

Kyle.

Moreno Valley High Scool

2009-09-02T11:18:00.004-06:00

Moreno Valley High School has broken ground on their new multi purpose building here in Angel Fire. This is an exciting time for Moreno Valley High, (ranked 41st best high school in the USA by Newsweek/Washington Post in 2008), as this is our first permanent facility. The first phase of the new campus, the Multi-purpose Facility is the most prominent architectural feature of the school and the centerpiece of its wind control strategy. Located on the western edge of the school, it acts as a prow, deflecting westerly predominant winds. It contains a gathering hall whose roof is designed to shed the wind, capture rain water and snow as well as admit abundant natural light. Also included in this first phase of construction are student lockers and commons and a kitchen.

Jacque Boyd, School Director, says this facility is ahead of schedule and should be completed by late spring 2010, just in time for my son's junior year. If you are looking for quality of life and World Class Educations for your children here are a few facts to consider about our high school...

MVHS is nationally ranked as the 41st. high school in America by the 2008 Newsweek/Washington Post Challenge Index.

MVHS Five Year Average ACT scores are higher in every reporting category for the reporting period, than the state’s scores in the same categories.

MVHS Five Year Average ACT scores indicate eighty percent of our students scored college ready for college level English Composition and Social Science. (State college readiness percentages for the same period, 60% for English Composition and 48% for Social Science.)

MVHS students made Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) under No Child Left Behind in every category, for the past three years.

Nine-nine percent of MVHS seniors have passed all six content areas on the NMHSCE.

Ninety-three percent of MVHS juniors have pass all six content areas of the NMHSCE.

MVHS graduation rate was 100% in 2004 and 2005, 99% in 2006 and 100% in 2007 and 2008

Of the 18 graduates in 2008, 17 went on to higher education.

An MVHS graduate was named a National Merit Scholarship Finalist. Several have received recognition for outstand scores on the Advanced Placement Program tests (AP Programs.) In 2007 one student was recognized as a “Scholar of Distinction”, one as a “Scholar with Honor” and four qualified for the AP Scholar Award.

MVHS seniors have gone on to pursue advanced degrees at some of the most prestigious colleges and universities in American and abroad. Some colleges and universities that MVHS graduates have gone on to attend: Middlebury College in Vermont, University of Oregon, Texas Christian University, Virginia Military Institute, Brigham Young University, Universitiet College Utrecht in Utrecht, The Netherlands, and a World College campus in Florence, Italy.

Now ask yourself, would you like your children to grow up in a beautiful safe small town environment with world class public education? If so, contact me and I will show you how easy it is to live, work and play in Angel Fire, New Mexico.

Kyle.

Taos Mountain Music Festival

2009-08-19T14:21:00.012-06:00

Barbie, Austin and I headed to Taos Ski Valley this past Saturday for the First Annual Taos Mountain Music Festival. It was a great time combined with great bands and fantastic music. Hats off to the event organizers, volunteers, sponsors, and promoters of this first class event. The Taos Ski Valley is the perfect venue for a music festival, and the weather cooperated by providing lots of sunshine!

The band lineup included Ozomalti, Joan Osborne, The Wailers, Nosotros, Rico Blues Project, and more! Another great component of the success of the event was the fact that the organizers allowed children ten and under in free, and this resulted in lots of families with kids. We also saw lots of friends from Angel Fire and from all over New Mexico. We heard the event was a great success with over 3000 people in attendance, and there is even talk in the air for making the event a two day event next summer. We will be back, and hope to see you there. In the meantime here are some photos...

Barb and Kyle enjoying the sounds of Joan Osborne.

Tara Chisum (Remax Angel Fire Agent) and her friend John.

Dawn and Bruce, our friends from Guadalupita.

Barbie and Curt and Karen Hanlen enjoying the Wailers.

The Wailers on Stage.

See you next year at the 2nd annual TMMF,

Kyle.

Angel Fire Country Club is taking Shape

2009-08-14T19:12:00.020-06:00

The NEW Angel Fire Country Club House is taking on a shape that has everyone talking, and has a few of us old timers waxing nostalgic about the old Club House.

I have to admit prejudice to the old Club House. I got married there to the Girl of my Dreams, 17 years ago. It was a snowy Thanksgiving Marriage and I have been Thankful ever since. For our wedding we invited most of the town, which was not as many people as you might think...

Barbie had the ideal wedding in mind, and that meant everyting had to be perfect, and it was. The Old Club House was beautiful and had the beautiful Doors and Handles that depicted the Four Seasons of Angle Fire.

This is a picture of or son Austin and his dog Charlie admiring the construction of the new Angel Fire Contry Club. I look forward to seeing old friends at the new CC.

Kyle.

Jud and Friends Summit Wheeler Peak

2009-08-07T12:11:00.009-06:00

In June we hiked up to the summit of Wheeler Peak which is 13,168 feet, making it the tallest mountain in New Mexico. There are a couple of ways to do this trip, and what we did was hike up the Bull O the Woods trail, a relatively straight forward hike in terms of route finding. The distance (8 miles one way) and sustained elevation gain can make it a bit of a challenge.

This is a beautiful hike through gorgeous New Mexico country. The Bull of the Woods Trail can be hiked in a day, but be sure to be below tree line before afternoon thunderstorms roll in. In other words, an early start is essential. The trail heads up along a creek bed in a fairly deep valley for the first two miles or so. As you emerge from the valley, you will encounter the Bull of the Woods Pasture, where good camping can be found.

At this point, you also encounter a turn off for Trail 64 to Gold Hill (to the Northwest). After the turn off for Trail 64, the Bull of the Woods trail makes a sharp turn to the Southeast, and continues climbing up an old mining road. The road makes a few switchbacks as it gains elevation, but eventually turns into a trail and proceeds in a Southerly direction. As you continue toward the south, the trail begins to emerge from the trees.

The trail makes a number of switchbacks as it climbs out of the basin and eventually reaches the summit of Mount Walter which, from below, is often mistaken for Wheeler Peak. From the top of Mount Walter, the trail continues along a wide ridge until it reaches the summit. From here you can relax and take in the views of the beautiful Sangre de Christos.

Once you reach the top there is a cannon and you unscrew the top and sign your name and date for proof you made it to the top! When we went down we went down the face of the mountain coming down by Williams Lake this is a wonderful place to camp and a lot of people prefer to go up this way. It is a great experience that you can laugh about later. Maybe we will see you at the top!

Judson.

Summer Harvest Time & Farmers Markets

2009-08-07T11:29:00.021-06:00

Wow, it is that time of year again, summer harvest time is here! The cool mountain weather of Northern New Mexico and the region around Angel Fire is perfect for growing a wide variety of fantastic vagetables including many different greens, onions, tomatoes, spinach, herbs, parsley, cilantro, kale, chard, beets, carrots, potatoes, brocolli, green beans, chiles, peppers, cucumbers, and much, much more. The area farmer's markets abound with healthy organic offerings. Of course we also have our own little garden and then we also have friends like Bruce and Dawn who have a large lovely garden growing along Coyote Creek.

We recently spent a wonderful Sunday in their garden gathering vegetables that we then used to make a fantastic afternoon salad and meal that was accompanied with some great wines, including some fine New Mexico vintages.

To cool off we went rafting on Coyote Creek and then went for a long hike. New Mexico is heaven for people who enjoy the healthy outdoor life!

Today we went to the Friday Farmers Market in Eagle Nest and bought watermelon, cucumbers, tomatoes, zuchinni, squash, radishes, greens, and onions. We also had one of the best hamburgers I have ever had! Below I have listed the schedules for several Farmer's Markets in the area. We hope to see you at one of them!

Kyle.

Eagle Nest: Moreno Valley Farmers' Market
Location: Golden Eagle RV Park, 1 block south of Eagle Nest on Hwy. 64
Schedule: Fridays, 11 am - 3 pm
Market Season: June 19th - September 19th
Contact: (575) 377-6188

Española Farmers' Market
Location: 1005 N. Railroad Ave.
Schedule: Mondays, 10 am - 5 pm
Season: June 15th - October 26th
Contact: Sabra Moore, (505) 685-4842
Accepts EBT, WIC and Senior checks

Las Vegas: Tri County Farmers' Market
Location: 6th St. and University
Schedule: Saturdays & Wednesdays, 7 am - sellout
Market Season: May 16th - November 1st
Contact: Daniel Hern, (505) 799-8315
Accepts WIC and Senior checks

Mora Valley Farmers' Market
Location: Mora Valley Ranch Supply Store in downtown Mora, Hwy 518
Schedule: Fridays, 3:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Market Season: June 26th - September 25th
Contact: Wendy Capek, (505) 387-5435
Accepts WIC and Senior checks

Pojoaque Valley Farmers’ Market
Location: 78 Cities of Gold, off Hwy. 84/285 next to Poeh Pueblo Cultural Center
Schedule: Wednesdays, 2 pm - 6 pm, Sundays, 12-4pm starting June 7th
Market Season: May 13th - October
Contact: Cindy Talamantes, (575) 581-4651
Accepts EBT, WIC, and Senior checks

Santa Fe Farmers' Market
Location: Farmers' Market Pavilion, 1607 Paseo de Peralta at Guadalupe
Schedule: Saturdays & Tuesdays (beginning May 5th), 7 am - 12 pm
Market Season: April 25th - November
Winter Market
Location: Farmers' Market Pavilion, 1607 Paseo de Peralta at Guadalupe
Schedule: Saturdays, 9 am - 1 pm
Market Season: November - mid-April
Contact: Tim Vos, (505) 983-4098 or email us
Website: www.santafefarmersmarket.com
Accepts EBT, WIC and Senior checks

Taos Farmers' Market
Location: Town hall lot, next to the public library
Schedule: Saturdays, 8 am - 12 pm
Market Season: May 16th - October 31st
Contact: Eytan Salinger, (575) 751-7575
Accepts WIC and Senior checks

Taos Sunday Market
Location: KTAO Solar Radio Station parking lot, 9 SR 150
Schedule: Sundays, 10 am - 2 pm
Market Season: May 31st - September
Contact: Dylan Felt, (575) 613-2057 or email us
Accepts WIC & Senior checks

Eathquake Shakes Area

2009-08-05T11:52:00.003-06:00

You read the headline correctly, we actually felt the effects of a earthquke here in the Moreno Valley, including Angel Fire and Eagle Nest. The quake was centered 36 miles northeast of Cimmarron and measured 3.9 in magnitude on the richter scale. While I did not feel the quake other people in the area did. There were reports of rattling dishes, shaking walls, and rumbling sounds from Angel Fire to Eagle Nest in the early morning hours of July 29.

Earthquakes are not that rare in New Mexico, but the strongest ever recorded was in 1906 in Socorro which was a 6.0 magnitude quake. Most quakes in New Mexico are very minor events, and while not directly attributable to faults they are the result of stretching of the terrain which is indirectly attributable to the fault lines along the west coast. So the next time you feel a shaking here in the Moreno Valley it might not be just the sound of construction on the new Country Club.

Kyle.

Bears Comitting Burglaries

2009-07-30T13:36:00.003-06:00

Last night at around two in the morning our neighborhood bear made his regular appearance. He regularly shows up and empties a garbage can that we keep our gardening tools in, there is no food in it unless he wants to eat Miracle Grow. The reason I am bringing this up is because I know someone in the neighboorhood is probably feeding him thinking he is cute.

The reality is this 350 pound beast could be very dangerous. I want to remind everyone here in Angel Fire and surrounding areas to please not feed the bears. Lately there has been a rash of burglaries by bears, and one bear even took a garbage bag out of a residents hands. My concern is someone is going to get hurt, it has happened many times before. Therefore do not feed the bears, keep all garbage and grills in a secure place, and always latch the dumpster lids. If we all do this the bears will move on back to the forest where they belong.

Kyle.

New Snowfire Listing

2009-07-19T13:06:00.003-06:00

The Eby Team would like to thank the Morelands for allowing us to market their fantastic listing at the Snow Fire Condominiums here in Angel Fire, New Mexico. This lovely condo (207 in the B Building) has never been rented, and has always been owned by the Morelands who have maintained it in perfect like new condition. This unit also has great views of the ski area from it's private balcony. This on won't last at $118,500 with the seller offering financing to qualified buyers. Schedule a viewing with the Eby Team or view online at Vacationhomesandcondos.com.

Kyle.

Real Estate and Goin Ons

2009-07-12T10:59:00.006-06:00

We have had a busy week here in Angel Fire, New Mexico. We have had lots of customers looking at everything from homes, condos, to land. Over the last couple of weeks we have been noticing a significant increase in Real Estate activity. We also have some of the best buys we have seen in years, so it is definitely a buyer's market! We have also noticed alot more visitors in the area, dining establishments are reporting brisk business, and we are seeing the same with shopping.

Barb, and Austin and I went to Movies Under the Stars Friday night for Iron Man, and wow what a turnout. This is proving to be a great summer tradition for Angel Fire as evidenced by the fact that attendees seemed to come from all over the Enchanted Circle. We will be there next Friday for "Paul Blart, Mall Cop." We hope to see you there!

Kyle.

Movies Under the Stars

2009-07-02T09:57:00.002-06:00

(Angel Fire Resort News Release) - Grab your chairs and blankets and join Angel Fire Resort for five weeks of Friday night movies under the stars starting July 3rd. A northern New Mexico favorite, Movies Under the Stars has been moved this year to the Angel Fire Resort Golf Course driving range to take advantage of the natural amphitheater style seating and lush grass.

Adjacent to the temporary country club, the driving range makes the perfect spectator venue for the 50’ inflatable movie screen and theater quality surround sound. The 2009 movie line-up includes “Surf’s Up”, “Iron Man”, “Paul Blart: Mall Cop”, “Dark Knight” and “Yes Man”. The event is being offered to the public free of charge – complete with free popcorn – and in partnership with the Village of Angel Fire, Michelob Ultra, Zanios Foods and KKTC – FM 99.

As the evenings tend to get chilly, moviegoers are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets, jackets and other materials to make the movie more comfortable and enjoyable. Bringing alcoholic beverages on the premises is prohibited by New Mexico State Law. Backpacks and coolers will be subject to search. There will be a cash bar available to individuals 21 years of age and older with valid ID. Concessions, including barbeque, sodas, snacks, and candy will also be available on site. For last minute weather cancellations or venue changes, please call the Angel Fire Resort Hotel at 575-377-6401. Barb and I will be there so you be too!

Kyle.

Balloons Over Angel Fire

2009-06-28T12:41:00.005-06:00

Here is a photo if you missed the big event this weekend, Balloon Fest and Summer Fest. The Village of Angel Fire sponsored this event which year by year is gaining momentum. They had live Blues Music for two nights, food booths, games, and of course Balloons. There were two mass ascensions, one on Saturday and one on Sunday and the weather was prefect! The picture shows the balloons over the tent at Plaza de Sol where most events took place. If you did miss this event mark it on your calender for next year and be here! Coming up, don't miss this coming weeks events at Eagle Nest and Angel Fire, we will be there with the camera. View a complete schedule at http://www.sangrechronicle.com.

Kyle.

New Listing and Lunch Out

2009-06-24T21:17:00.006-06:00

Thanks Jim and Lori Pfannes for the new listing in Sierra Bonita! Beautiful acreage with three bedroom one bath home in a serene setting. The property is located in the Sierra Bonita Subdivision in Mora County aprroximately 20 minutes from Angel Fire. and offers extreme privacy and beautiful views. The homes is situated on two lots and is a rare find. Contact The Eby Team for details. You may also view the home at the website at http://www.vacationhomesandcondos.com.

While we were down at Sierra Bonita we had lunch at the Creek Side Cafe, and wow it was good! Tell Cody, the owner, Kyle and Barb sent you. They have great Sunday lunch specials.

Kyle

Moreno Valley High School on Top Again!

2009-06-18T16:16:00.004-06:00

Moreno Valley High School in Angel Fire has once again been ranked as the top academic high school in the State of New Mexico! Newsweek magazine ranked Moreno Valley High School as the 326th best public high school in the United States. The rankings are based on the Advanced Placement International Tests. This is a great accomplishment for Moreno Valley High, it's faculty and students. As a parent of a student I especially want to congratulte and thank Jackie Boyd, the school's director. We are so fortunate to have such a group of true professionals who love their jobs! On a related note I have to make a plug here... If you want the best quality of life and education for your kids, consider Angel Fire. As a local Realtor I would love to show how easily you could have a life you have only dreamed about. Look over The Eby Team website at http://www.vacationhomesandcondos.com and give me a call!

Kyle.

New Listing, Gold Creek 204, 2 Bedroom, $110,000.

2009-06-09T19:27:00.007-06:00

The Eby Team is proud to announce our new Angel Fire listing, Gold Creek Condominium Unit 204. This beautiful two bedroom condo has an excellent vacation rental history. The condo features a large kitchen, fireplace, private patio, laminate floors, and is updated throughout. The condo is being sold completely furnished, and is turn key ready for your vacation time fun, or as a permanent residence.

The Gold Creek is just steps from the Chile Express Lift, and has on site management. The condo also has a ski locker in the lobby, and also has a large storage closet off the lobby. The condo is priced for quick sale at $110,000. Contact the Eby Team to view this exceptional listing. You can also view it online at http://www.vacationhomesandcondos.com.

Kyle.

Country Club and Fishing

2009-06-04T21:41:00.003-06:00

Construction of the new Angel Fire Country Club Clubhouse is well underway! If you look closely at this picture you will see what I think is the new swimming pool. Boy it will be nice to have a new clubhouse and a pool!

On another note Saturday, June 6 is the National Take Your Family Fishing Day. To honor this day New Mexico is making fishing in all New Mexico waterways free by not requiring fishing licenses for the day. So lets all go catch some fish on Saturday!

Kyle.

Angel Fire and Beyond!

2009-06-01T17:50:00.009-06:00

Wow, it occurred to me today that I have not posted in a week! Something must be wrong, hmmm, oh I know, it's the fact that I have been busy! Real Estate here in Angel Fire and Northern New Mexico has been going gangbusters! The Eby's have been showing everything from ski condos, acreage, homes and everything in between. Today I want to post about what The Eby Team can do for buyers and sellers, and about our coverage.

Angel Fire is where we are located, but as Realtors in Northern New Mexico we cover a broad cross section of Northern New Mexico. We have clients who are selling or buying everything from slope side condos, executive style mountain chalets, cabins in the woods, homes with acreage, commercial properties, ranches, agrarian properties, and even some time shares. Choose an Eby Team Member and you will find we have no limits of knowledge about Northern New Mexico, and will leave no stone unturned when it comes to finding your dream or finding the perfect buyer! We also love to show buyers parts of New Mexico that they have only seen in their dreams! Contact an Eby, you will not be disappointed!

Some of the areas we cover are Angel Fire, Black Lake, Red River, Taos, Cimarron, Miami, Guadalupita, Chacon, Mora, Eagle Nest, Tres Piedras, Sippapu, Valle Escondido, Questa, Pendaries, Rainsville, Las Vegas, Pilar, and much more! Here is a picture I took in Mora Canyon yesterday of a great fishing spot at Sierra Bonita while I was out previewing properties.

Kyle.

Do you want $14,500?

2009-05-26T13:36:00.002-06:00

It is now easier than ever to become a first time Homebuyer with the Federal Government offering up to $8000.00 cash and the State of New Mexico offering a loan up to $6500.00 cash for first time homebuyers and for people who have not owned a home in three or more years.
Resort Properties of Angel Fire is presenting a Seminar, Thursday, May 28, at 6:00 it the Community Room at First National Bank. Guest speakers include Janet Iacobelli of First National Bank and Mark Johnson of Edson Mortgage. Agents from Resort Properties of Angel Fire will also be on hand to discuss properties that are affordable and available now. If you can attend please call Resort Properties at 575-377-3711, but don’t worry if you can’t call ahead please drop by anyhow!

Kyle.

Memorial Day in Angel Fire

2009-05-25T16:29:00.017-06:00

Memorial Day Weekend in Angel Fire, New Mexico keeps getting better every year. This year was no exception. Friday the crowds started arriving, many on four wheels and many on two wheels as we had both Harley Riders coming in for the ceremonies at the DAV Memorial as well as many more on mountain bikes for the Annual Chile Challenge Downhill Bike Race. It was a huge turnout for both kinds of two wheel vehicles. Hats off to the organizers of both events as they are helping make Angel Fire the place to be for Memorial Day Weekend. Most of the lodgers reported sell out vacancies, (Resort Properties Management had a sold out weekend), and retailers I talked to were very pleased with this great annual start to the summer season.

The Chile Challenge saw a growing attendance and it is so much fun to see the village filled with campers, bikers, and lots of people. Saturday afternoon many people attended the Resort Properties of Angel Fire Open House, and the food was fantastic, espcially Mike Stilles Brisket. The best part was Andy, Vandy and Earlines gospel music. They are a treasure! Saturday night we attended the Cajun Fest Fundraiser for the Shuter Liabrary and many locals like us have decided this is a must do! The food was great, (loads of appetizers, roasted chicken, a fantastic summer boil of Crab Legs, Shrimp and more, and wonderful deserts), but the best part was our local country western singing duo Tom and Fran Riek. They are truly talented! Tom is also a great local contractor.

Today we also enjoyed a great barbeque fundraiser sponsored by the Angel Fire Fire Department. It was wonderful to see locals and visitors turning out for the fantastic barbeque and supporting the firefighters. Also thanks to Jason and Charlie for letting me show them Angel Fire property this weekend.

In closing, this being the first Memorial Day since I lost my father Duane Eby, a true hero veteran, I want to share a little about him. My Dad is my personal hero! As a Marine Captain he flew many missions in the Pacific Theater in Curtis Commandos and other planes and took part in many important missions including the recapture of Iwo Jimo and supply of the of the Allied troops arriving on the beaches of Iwo Jima. He flew thousands of miles without all the electronic navigation gadgetry we take for granted today. I asked my Dad how he did it and he said "I always had my Bible and I let the Lord be my Co-Pilot." Thanks Dad for everything you did, I love you and miss you terribly!

Kyle.

Open House and Cajun Food

2009-05-22T21:16:00.004-06:00

MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND

Tomorrow:
Resort Properties Open House, come by for brisket, and all the sides,
11AM to 2PM. Meet an EBY and have lunch! 11AM - 2PM.

Breakfast at Avalon's with Vandy and Andy Gospel singing: 9AM to 12PM.
Cajun Fest Dinner for Shuter Liabrary at the Community Center 5:30 PM
Chile Challenge Bike Race all weekend...
DAV events all weekend long!

Kyle.

Fantastic Home and 5+ Acres

2009-05-16T13:49:00.003-06:00

I have to blog about this home for sale. It is being sold by one of our friends, Angie Stillwell, and we just love to visit her at this fantastic home. Gorgeous Whisper Creek home on 5+ acres off County Road B38. Awesome views of Wheeler Peak, and great acreage for horses. This stunning home features a large and open floor plan with high ceilings and exqusite finish details. There are three large bedrooms and two full baths. There is also a large three car garage and tons of storage. The home is being sold completely furnished. This is a must see! Priced at $749,000. Contact an Eby Team Member for an exclusive showing! Enjoy the slideshow.

Kyle.

White Water Fun!!!

2009-05-16T12:51:00.005-06:00

This is the time of year to start thinking about White Water Rafting on the Rio Grande. If you have not experienced the Rio Grande's famous white water you have not lived life to the fullest. Just ask Jud and Austin Eby who you see in this photo with our friend Bruce Graff as their guide last weekend. We always recommend Los Rios as the company to go with, and always ask for Bruce, he is the best guide you can get!

Raft the white-knuckle whitewater of the world-famous Taos Box. Float through the spectacular Chama river canyon and sleep under the stars. Enjoy a traditional Pueblo Indian feast after floating a calm stretch of the Rio Grande with a native guide. Or take your kids on a Rio Grande white water adventure they'll remember their whole lives.

Los Rios River Runners has more access to New Mexico's rivers than any other rafting company. Half-day, full-day and overnight adventures near Taos and Santa Fe - and a unique group tour. Come rafting with Los Rios, and meet the most experienced, the most knowledgeable, and the most fun river rafting guides in New Mexico. See you on the river!

Kyle.

Run for the Wall

2009-05-15T21:58:00.005-06:00

We all miss seeing Dr. Westphall riding his bicycle down 64 and 434. I can only hope and pray that I can honor my family the way he did. The Run for the Wall is a great tribute to Victor. Thousands agree with me. Here is a picture of lots of Vets on the Run for the Wall riding to see to the DAV.

The Memorial was originally constructed by the family of Dr. Westphall, whose son, David, was killed in a 1968 enemy ambush in Vietnam. It was maintained by the Disabled American Veterans (DAV); but, on November 9, 1998, ownership was transferred to the David Westphall Veterans Foundation. I also want to acknowledge Chuck Hasford for everything he and many other volunteers have done to keep Dr Westphall's vision alive!

Kyle.

Call an Eby Toll Free 888-308-3917

2009-05-14T16:55:00.002-06:00

The Eby Team Realtors of Angel Fire, New Mexico have a new toll free number and PBX which insures you will always be able to get a hold of us. The toll free number is 888-308-3917, Kyle's ext is 12, Jud's is 15, and Barbara's is 17. If you don't enter an extension it will ring all the Eby Team Members at the same time insuring you will be able to get a hold of us anytime! Remember we are always available to discuss your Northern New Mexico real estate needs.

Kyle.

Mountain Gardening

2009-05-12T14:16:00.007-06:00

The gardening season has arrived here in Angel Fire and I want to take a moment to thank the Angel Fire Gardening Club and the Village of Angel Fire for their efforts last year and this year. I especially want to note the beautiful display of wildflowers on Mountain View Blvd. This year the Garden Club and the Village of Angel Fire worked together again to seed the other side of Mountain View Blvd. I can't tell you how many times I heard visitors commenting on the wildflowers. It really makes a statement, and I can't wait to see this years display. The Garden Club has also done a wonderful job with the median on North Angel Fire Road. Maybe we are on to something...One of Crested Butte'e biggest summer events is their Wildflower Festival.

Speaking of gardening Barb and I are very much into it right now. We are so fortunate to live here in Angel Fire where the spring and summer seasons are perfect for being outdoors and gardening. We have also learned over the years that nothing improves the value of real estate more than great curb appeal. Even if you like the wild look, you can easily accentuate it with wild flowers and attractive yard diplays and blooming trees and shrubs. We like to use combinations of wild and manicured. We like to grow tulips in early spring, and then we use different wildflower blends for spring, summer, and fall.

We also always have a small vegetable garden, (the one pictured is Bruce and Dawn Graff's), where we grow onions, garlic, spinach, radishes, greens, some squash, peppers and lots of herbs. Regardless of what you grow you won't find a more pleasing environment to do it in than the Mountains! Happy Gardening!

Kyle.

First Time Homeowners Seminar & Cinco de Mayo

2009-05-01T21:09:00.004-06:00

I just want to post a quick note today about some upcoming events. First off Resort Properties of Angel Fire is going to be hosting a first time homebuyers (or individuals who have not owned a home in the past three years), seminar May 28, at 6 PM at First National Bank here in Angel Fire. We will have officials from the Bank, State Agencies, and local Mortgage Brokers who will give presentations on the Tax Credit Programs, State Assistance Loan Programs, available mortgage programs, and other programs that will help turn renters into homeowners. As a matter of fact many of the professionals we have talked to lately are saying it has never been easier to buy your first home. Please plan on attending. I will have more details as the date gets closer. In the meantime read my three part series on first time homeowners in previous posts on this blog. If you have any questions please call Kyle Eby at 575-377-3711 or email me.

On another note it's time to have fun this weekend and help the Moreno Valley Charter High School raise funds by attending our annual Cinco de Mayo Festival, May 2, at 7 PM at the Angel Fire Community Center. Admission is $20 and includes a Mexican food dinner, cash bar, and the Jimmy Stadler band. This is always a blast, so please plan on attending. I will be there looking for you! Till next time,

Kyle.

Weekend Report, Slash is not Trash, It's a Real Danger!

2009-04-26T13:53:00.007-06:00

This weekend the weather was beautiful, the skies blue, and the grass is starting to come up. It must finally be springtime in Angel Fire. So how did we spend it, of course we spent it gathering up the slash in our yard. In our case the slash is composed of tree branches and lots of pine needles. We also plan to thin our trees as spring progresses thereby generating even more slash, which brings me to my point. The fact is our gravest threat here in Angel Fire is a wildfire. That is why it is so important to thin our properties and get rid of our slash. The irony is that in the effort to create fire breaks by thinning the growth and slash on our properties we have historically set fires trying to burn the slash, but the Village of Angel Fire has solved that problem, but more on that later…

For those who are second homeowners, or who have not lived here very long you might not be aware of the history of some of the fires that have taken place around our area. There was the Lama/Hondo fire of May 1996 which destroyed the town of Lama north of Taos and burned all the way through Hondo and almost to Questa. This tragedy left over two thousand people homeless, and was started by an individual who was burning slash in a barrel. There was also the Cerro Grande Fire at Los Alamos in May of 2000, which left more than four hundred families homeless and destroyed 43,000 acres of forest. This fire was actually caused by a prescribed burn whose intended goal was to reduce the threat of wildfire.

Of course we have also had our share of fires here in Angel Fire, including the Valley of the Utes fire in the early seventies, and the Aspens fire we had in 1996. That is why it is so important that we all work together to thin our properties and dispose of our slash responsibly. Getting rid of overgrowth and slash is vitally important to protecting our environment, properties and lives. I recently had a conversation with a homeowner who desperately needs to thin the property around his house. He stated that he preferred the natural look, and did not want a manicured look on his property. I explained that it was not about having a manicured lawn, but is actually about protecting his property and the property of his neighbors. I got the impression he thought I was being overly cautious, I got the impression he just didn’t want to deal with it.

Now back to the Village of Angel Fire. Our village government has recognized the need to dispose of slash responsibly to reduce the threat of fires and they have stepped up to the plate by making it easier than ever to dispose of slash and thin our lots. This week the Village ran an ad in the Sangre de Cristo Chronicle outlining the free slash disposal program they are offering. If you missed it here is a brief recap. Homeowners may drop of slash at the Transfer Station for free if they provide the lot number the slash came from, the name of the lot owner, phone number and name of person dropping off. There are a number of contractors in the area who will contract with homeowners to gather slash on your property and deliver it to the transfer station. If you have trouble finding one, contact me and I will help you make arrangements.

Now for the best part, the Village of Angel Fire also offers free pick up of slash for the do it yourselfers like us. You just simply need to gather up the slash from your lot, (no trash or tree stumps please), stack it no further than 20 feet from a public road, and call 377-7004 to arrange pick up. Please note the maximum load per pick up is 10 cubic yards. After your finished with the slash take the Village’s online Wildfire Protection Survey to help formulate a wildfire plan for our community. Now isn’t that easy, now nobody has an excuse for not working to help make Angel Fire and our surrounding environment safer and more beautiful. Uh oh,,, Barb is hollering for me to help her with the slash, till next time…

Kyle.

5.1 Acres Black Lake/Angel Fire

2009-04-25T12:18:00.005-06:00

The Eby Team has a new Land Listing on County Road B-38. This is a 5.1 acres tract with Lonesome Dove views all the way around. Could be bought with adjacent 5 acres that includes a new Whisper Creek home. Price for the vacant land is $169,500. For details about this opportunity call The Eby Team, Resort Properties of Angel Fire, 575-377-3711 or cell 956-802-8952 or click here. Directions to land: Going South on Hwy 434, keep straight and turn right on CountyRd B38 and take first road to the right.

Kyle.

New Listing, Gold Dust Condo C3

2009-04-24T10:58:00.008-06:00

The Eby Team is proud to show our new listing at the Gold Dust Condos. This spacious two bedroom, two and a half bath condo features rare views of of the ski slopes and exhibition. It is easily large enough to accomodate eight people as a nightly vacation rental. Adding to the nightly rental potential is the fact that it is easy walking distance to the Chile express Lift. The unit is also very bright with lots of windows and a balcony viewing the slopes. The unit is being sold furnished, and includes all appliances and the washer dryer. This is a split level floor plan with 2 full bedrooms and 2 full baths located upstairs. There is a half bath downstairs and a nook area with mountain views that could hold other beds. The unit features a wood burning fireplace in the family area. This is a very comfortable condo with a wonderful location for family enjoyment. To view this great opportunity is available for $124,900. Call the Eby Team at 575-377-3711 or stop by our office at 52 N Angel Road and ask for an Eby.

Kyle.

View Slideshow of Gold Dust C3

Living and Owning in Angel Fire, Part 3, Jobs and Businesses

2009-04-17T14:02:00.004-06:00

Living and Owning in Angel Fire, Part 3. Our Blog series continues today with a posting about employment and business opportunities in the Angel Fire and Taos area. Angel Fire can be a dream- come- true for you too! Remember, someone is on the other end of your vacation to make it all work, it takes a lot to operate a tourist destination and it takes many to do so. Not only that, but there are many other full-time employment opportunities in and around Angel Fire and Taos just like any other town or city. Some of our biggest employers are Angel Fire Resort, The Cimarron School District, Taos School District, Holy Cross Hospital in Taos, The Towns of Taos and Angel Fire, to name just a few. To view employment opportunities at these employers just click on the associated links. As an example Holy Cross Hospital is currently seeking employees for a variety of positions including RN, Physical Therapist, Bookeeping, Housekeeping, Pharmacy, and Physician positions among many others.

The New Mexico Department of Labor projects 47,870 new jobs will be created in the healthcare sector over the next 6 years. The fastest growth within the health services industry is anticipated to occur within the ambulatory health care services, approaching 44 percent and growing by 13,170 jobs. Nursing and residential care facilities are projected to add 4,460 jobs, equating to roughly 35 percent growth, growing from 12,770 jobs in 2002 to 17,230 in 2012. Social assistance employment is projected to increase by 41.4 percent, rising from 15,350 jobs in 2002 to 21,710 in 2012. There were 40 work locations in this industry in Colfax County in 2006, with a total of 906 employees. The average weekly wage for Sector (2 digit) Health Care and Social Assistance in Colfax County in 2nd Quarter, 2006 was $596. This would be equivalent to $14.90 per hour or $30,992 per year, assuming a 40-hour week worked the year around. Source: Work in New Mexico http://www.workinnewmexico.gov/clusters.html.

Business Services companies provide the backbone for any productive business environment. They are a strong sector of employment in the New Mexico economy. New Mexico has an advantage as corporations seek to provide business services to the growing Hispanic population. According to the New Mexico Department of Labor, employment in professional and business services is projected to increase from 98,710 to 125,590 jobs or 27.2 percent during the 2002 to 2012 period. Administrative support positions are projected to experience the fastest growth within the professional and business services industry growing by 49.4% and adding 20,650 jobs. Management of companies and services jobs is projected to grow by 34.5 percent or 1,880 jobs. Professional, scientific and technical services are projected to add 3,880 jobs or grow 7.7 percent. The retail trade industry is by far the largest member in the Small Business/Retail Trade cluster. There were 78 work locations in this industry in Colfax County in 2006, with a total of 630 employees. The average weekly wage for Sector (2 digit) Retail Trade in Colfax County in 2nd Quarter, 2006 was $358. This would be equivalent to $8.95 per hour or $18,616 per year, assuming a 40-hour week worked the year around. Source: http://laser.state.nm.us/default.asp
Source: http://laser.state.nm.us/indprofilrdata.asp.

The Accommodation and Food Services sector comprises establishments providing customers with lodging and/or preparing meals, snacks, and beverages for immediate consumption. The sector includes both accommodation and food services establishments because the two activities are often combined at the same establishment. Excluded from this sector are civic and social organizations; amusement and recreation parks; theaters; and other recreation or entertainment facilities providing food and beverage services. There were 67 work locations in this industry in Colfax County in 2006, with a total of 902 employees. The average weekly wage Accommodation and Food Services in Colfax County in 2nd Quarter , 2006 was $303. This would be equivalent to $7.58 per hour or $15,756 per year, assuming a 40-hour week worked the year around. Source: Work in New Mexico http://www.workinnewmexico.gov/clusters.html.

Of course any discussion of job opportunities in the area should also include the self employed and entrepreneurs. Angel Fire is the fastest growing municipality in New Mexico, and as with all fast growing towns we are in constant need of new service providers, retail outlets, dining establishments, contractors, and the many other types of businesses needed in a fast growing resort town. We also desperately need some fast food outlets, (not that I eat it, ha!). We also are attracting internet commuters who have found our reliable high speed internet and other services allow them to be virtual commuters. They have the best of both worlds, working for big corporations while enjoying the resort lifestyle that Angel Fire affords.

We also have a number of commercial establishments listed for sale, a sampling includes a commercial complex with a laundry, 3 commercial spaces and four nightly lodging units on Hwy 434 for $979,000. A long time established Bar and Restaurant that has a loyal legion of locals business as well as tourist business for $1,300,000. Keep in mind the fact that liquor licenses are very valuable in New Mexico. Pet Pals, which is a boarding kennel with 25 stalls and a 3 Bedroom 3 Bath home on 4 acres with great views of Eagle Nest Lake for $649,000. There are also a number of other businesses available in Angel Fire, Eagle Nest, and Taos. If you dream of being an Inn operator we also have a large lodge and restaurant listed for sale in Angel Fire for $1,350,000. If you are interested in making your dream a reality and have decided to explore Living and Owning in Angel Fire please give the Eby Team a call. We will be more than happy to show you how to do it!

Till next time,

Kyle.

Living & Owning in Angel Fire, Part 2, New Mexico State Assistance for Buyers

2009-04-09T18:07:00.013-06:00

Today we are continuing our series of Blogs, “Living and Owning in Angel Fire.” In our last post we discussed the Federal Tax Credit program for first time homebuyers. This post will continue with our discussion regarding first time home buyers, and other programs available in New Mexico. In New Mexico, the New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority is a great resource for low to median income families and individuals looking for assistance with buying their first home.

MFA offers a number of programs with below-market interest rates and/or closing cost assistance to first-time homebuyers. These programs are also available to individuals who have not owned a home or a manufactured house in the last three years.

The main programs offered by MFA are the Mortgage$aver Programs, Mortgage$aver Plus Programs, Payment$aver Programs, Mortgage Booster Program, and a new program called HERO for households with at least one member who is a safety worker, health care worker, educator or an active member of the armed forces.

The Mortgage$aver and Mortgage$aver Plus Programs offer below-market interest rates and/or closing cost assistance to first-time homebuyers. First-time homebuyers are individuals who have not owned a home (including a manufactured home on a permanent foundation) in the last three years. A borrower may qualify for funds based upon household income and family size as well as the sales price of the home.

Mortgage loans available under the Mortgage$aver program include FHA, VA, and a variety of conventional loans, including the MyCommunity and Community Solutions Programs. The low Mortgage$aver rates mean lower monthly mortgage payments. The Mortgage$aver Plus programs save the borrower money because they are not required to pay an origination or loan discount fee at loan closing, leaving more money in the borrowers pocket. The Mortgage$aver Plus program also provides the borrower with a grant (that does not have to be repaid) to help reduce the need for up-front cash at closing.

Mortgage$aver loans are 30-year fixed-rate loans available at rates below the 30-year fixed “market” rate. The Mortgage$aver Plus interest rate is slightly higher than the 30-year fixed “market” rate, but has no origination fee or discount fee and features a 3.0% (of the total loan amount) down payment assistance grant “built-in” to the loan. The grant can be used towards down payment, closing costs, and prepaid expenses.

In order to qualify a buyer must start the Mortgage Application process with a professional MFA-qualified mortgage lender who will review the borrowers monthly income, expenses, employment situation, and credit report so that they can determine if the borrower is eligible for the Mortgage$aver programs.

Payment$aver works with a below-market interest rate first mortgage loan as a second mortgage loan at zero-percent interest to cover up-front costs (the down payment and other costs related to the purchase excluding pre-paids). The zero-percent interest Payment$aver loan is a soft second loan that may not exceed the lesser of 8% of the sales price of the home or $8,000. The loan does not need to be paid back until the property is sold, refinanced, or transferred, and it is assum-able if the buyer meets program eligibility requirements. After 5 years, this loan may be forgiven at the rate of 20% per year. An MFA-qualified lender will need to determine qualifications including down payment/closing cost assistance needed by the borrower.

HERO is one of the most interesting programs. This is a great new program for attracting the professionals rural mountain communities need. HERO is designed to serve households in which at least one member is a safety worker, health care worker, educator or an active member of the armed forces. The Hero Program is a special first and second mortgage loan that can be used jointly to include down payment and closing cost assistance to persons in certain occupations. Even if you’re not a first time homebuyer, you may still qualify for the HERO First Mortgage Program and also if necessary a HERO Second Mortgage.

The HERO First Mortgage is a 30-year fixed rate mortgage available for both first time homebuyers and non-first time homebuyers at a below-market interest rate with a 1 point origination fee and 1 point discount fee (1+1). Also, there is no pre-payment penalty! Another big plus of HERO are the substantially higher income limits allowed and the higher purchase prices allowed. An MFA-qualified lender will need to determine qualifications of a buyer.

Two local qualified-MFA lenders would be Peoples Bank of Taos, 575-758-4500, and Wells Fargo of Taos, 575-751-4208. There might be others I could not find on the MFA website, so if you are a qualified lender in our area notify me and I will add you to the list.

There are also many other programs, so be sure your lender is fully up on all the various programs. I have found more often than not that lenders tend to be narrow minded, and need to broaden their knowledge and scope of the programs before they let a potential borrower get out the door. In closing, (no pun intended), if you’re a first time buyer, or have not owned a home in the last three years, or qualify for the HERO program, it might be easier than ever to own your own home in Angel Fire. For more comprehensive information about New Mexico’s MFA Program and qualification tables click here. The next Living and Owning in Angel Fire post will be about employment/business opportunities.
Kyle.

Living & Owning in Angel Fire, Part 1, Get $8000 for Buying a Home for Your First Time!

2009-04-07T17:00:00.004-06:00

This is the first in a series of Blogs about Living and Owning in Angel Fire. We will be covering topics including First Time Buyer Tax Credits, Demographics/Quality of Life, Schools, Business/Employment Opportunities, and more. Today we are going to address first time home buyers about the Obama Administrations First Time Buyer’s Tax Credit.

We have a large number of individuals and families who have been renting for years here in Angel Fire and the area. This Tax Credit could be just the ticket to making owners out of many of the local renters. There is also the possibility that a potential first time buyer might be interested in relocating to Angel Fire. Either way, it can be just like having cash in your pocket towards the down payment.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 includes a provision that’s called the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit. This is an actual credit of $8,000 for Buyers who purchase and close on a condo or home by December 1st, 2009.

Specifically the Buyer must be a first time buyer, and for our area, have an income ceiling of no more than $46,600 for one or two person households, or $53,590 for three or more member households. Additionally you will receive the $8,000 check, (that’s right it’s a check), from the government after all your witholding for the 2008 tax year are paid and after your purchase closes.

To help things along, Governor Richardson has started a Tax Credit Loan Program with the New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority. This program provides buyers an interest free loan equal to 8 percent of the home’s value up to a maximum of $6,500. This gives potential buyers the cash up front, less $1,500, to use as down money at closing. The catch is that the loan must be paid in full by June 30, 2010 in order to be interest free. If paid after 6/3/2010 the loan rolls over to a second 30 year fixed rate mortgage.

Regardless, this is a great deal for first time home buyers needing the extra cash up front in order to qualify. The price ceiling for a home or condo to qualify is $237,031. Here in Angel Fire there are currently 75 homes that qualify for the program, and in Taos County there are over 110 homes listed that qualify for the program. Amazing, buy your first home and get an $8,000 check from Obama, no strings attached. If you’re a first time home buyer you owe it to yourself to look around at our listings and see if it is a good time for you to make a change. Come in and see the Eby Team to learn more, we always have the coffee on. Tomorrow our Blog series on Living and Owning in Angel Fire will continue…

Sincerely,
Kyle Eby.

Weekend Report: Hot Springs and Cliffs

2009-04-06T15:48:00.008-06:00

Before I get to the weekend report I want to give you a heads up on whats coming up on the Blog this week. We will be doing a series of Blogs starting tomorrow covering all aspects and advantages of living and owning in Angel Fire full time. We will cover the new tax credits, financing options, schools, business and employment opportunities,some great deals, and why Angel Fire is a great place to either raise a family or slow down. So this week stay tuned and learn about what so many of us locals already know.

Weekend Report: I do these weekend reports primarily to share our activities with our readers. We know about so many off the track activities and want our readers to know about them too. This weekend was no exception. We started Saturday by meeting up with our friends Bruce and Dawn and heading down to Las Vegas, New Mexico, to the Montezuma Hot Springs. These are a collection of hot springs bubbling out of the side of the mountain, supplying a variety of rock and cement tubs with healthful, hot mineral waters.

Though the springs were originally used by the historic Montezuma Castle Hot Springs Resort in the 1880's to just after the turn of the century, they are now open to the public free of charge. The castle, which is now the Armand Hammer World College, still looms over the springs. Three groupings of hot springs have been diverted into rather rustic cement and rock pools and tubs between the road and the beautiful river.

The hot springs are out in the open, with great views of the river, and they are kept rather clean, and bathers tend to be orderly because the owners, the World College, maintains stringent regulations for using the tubs. Pools and tubs range in size and temperature, and with a little experimenting, you can find the perfect soak. This is one of our favorites for relief from winter time blues. We always pack a picnic too! Swin attire is strictly required, no nude bathing here. Directions: From Las Vegas, NM go approx. 6 miles northwest on NM 65. Watch for signs on the right side of the road near the Armand Hammer United World College of the American West.

Sunday we followed up our soaking by hiking straight up the cliffs that tower above Coyote Creek in Guadalupita. We are fortunate that our friends Bruce and Dawn own a piece of this paradise that runs all the way to the top. Boy, at the top the views are marvelous. We also had a great time while getting leg burning exercise. We are so blessed to have literally hundreds if not thousands of areas around Angel Fire that are perfect for this type of Sunday activity. We are also getting in shape for our planned summit of Wheeler Peak in July. Remember, tomorrow we start our series of blogs on Living and Owning in Angel Fire. Till then...

Kyle.

Angel Fire and Our High School

2009-04-04T11:18:00.000-06:00

Why live in Angel Fire you might ask? Angel Fire, first of all, is a great place to raise a child. I say first of all because it's a big reason we live here. Angel Fire is a small, remote and safe haven to raise a family in. We are privliged to have the 36th highest ranked Charter High School in the entire nation, Moreno Valley High School, (Washington Post/Newsweek Best Schools Issue 2008). This high school has oustanding teachers and staff who teach in a way that only the GT (Gifted Talented) classes in other states teach. We have used other schools, but this is by far the best. I know this because we moved for a few years hiatus when our son, Austin was 5 years old, where he was in a GT class in McAllen, Texas. A very good school by the way, but approaching his high school years, this presented a problem in a border town as far as safety and quality of eduacaton. Sure, it wasn't easy leaving family, but what turned out to be a necessity for our son, was a blessing for all of us.

I was very worried about the transition for our son, Austin, but that turned out to be no problem for him; he reconnected with his old friends and made many new ones. Everyone in Angel Fire was very welcoming whether they remembered us or they were new friends. It is a small but very close community. When we moved back 18 months ago I asked Austin about his first day of school, he couldn't stop talking about his school, teachers, activities including trips, snow shoeing, snowboarding/ski classes in Spanish, and on and on! I am so glad we moved back, for the sake of our son, and for the wonderful quality of life we enjoy everyday, and we will never leave again! There are also many families here who feel the same way, and if you want to join us visit my website www.vacationhomesandcondos or call me at 956-802-3682 and I will show you around. Well it's Saturday, so it's off to the hot springs!

Barbara.

It's not just the Economy, it's also the Region

2009-04-02T09:56:00.028-06:00

Bad economic news is something none of us seem to be able to escape from lately, and the sad part is the media constantly buries good economic news. Therefore, with one exception, I was encouraged to read the article, "In the end, the ski season was a 'pleasant surprise'" on page seven of the 4/2/2009 issue of the Sangre de Cristo Chronicle. Once again, with one exception, all the businesses interviewed had encouraging news to report; sure most said business was down a bit, but all agreed it was better than had been expected.

Everyone I have talked to is in complete agreement that the economic downturn is mostly regional. Sure there are parts of the country that are suffering terribly, but the reality is that our region, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, etc, have proven to be remarkably resilient. Boy, I remember 1984 to about 1987 when I first started selling real estate here in Angel Fire the exact oppisite was true, we were the region that was suffering terribly.

This brings me to the one exception I had with the artice, that being the interview with Don Borgeson of Angel Fire Real Estate Research. Before I continue, I want to cite as my data source the Realtors Multiple Listing Service (Paragon), of which Mr. Borgeson is not a member, while the vast majority of Agents in the area are members. I also am not going to claim the MLS is totally reliable, but it is in my opionion the most reliable source available.

My first point of contention is the article states 'Unfortuantely nobody is buying.' This statement is not in quotations in the article, so I can't say for sure that Mr. Borgeson actually made this statement, but regardless it is not accurate. For the period January 1, 2009 thru March 31, 2009, (traditionally one of our slowest sales periods), 4 condos, 2 townhomes, and 4 single family homes sold. The total for all 10 was $1,929,500 for an average price of $192,950. There are also currently three more under contract, and I have personal knowledge of two others that have closed but not yet been entered as closed into the MLS. That would put the total number of closed residential properties at 12.

By comparison for the same three month period in 2008, 5 condos 11 homes and 1 townhouse had sold by March 31 for a total of 17. This reflected a total gross of $4,899,400 for an average price of $288,200. I agree that these numbers reflect a substatial retraction, but the numbers also show that there are indeed buyers out there right now who recognize what a great investment Angel Fire is. I personally have dealt with clients that view Angel Fire as a safe harbor for their money.

Mr. Borgeson also states that there are 350 to 450 homes on the market right now. Actually the MLS system shows there are currently 268 homes on the market covering the area from Eagle Nest to Black Lake. It is true that there is a very small minority of offices not on the MLS, and a handfulf of FSBO homes but I seriously doubt there are anywhere near enough non-MLS listings to explain the difference between 268 listings and 350 to 450 listings. Additionally, Mr. Borgeson states "the already bulging inventory of area homes for sale continued to grow at a rapid pace through the winter. Thats unusual, Borgeson says." Actually the MLS data show the pace of new listings slowed down a bit for the first quarter of 2009 (55 new listings) versus first quarter of 2008 (62 new lsitings).

Mr Borgeon also states "a whopping 105 of these (homes) are listed for $500,000 or more." The MLS data actually shows 76 homes for $500k or more, but the data also shows that there is a truly whopping 104 homes listed for $250,000 or less. I guess this is why the New York Times, in a March 12, 2009 article, cited Angel Fire one of the last affordable ski towns in America. In fairness to Mr. Borgeson he did state prices are falling and there are some great bargains, which is quite true. This bodes well for our busiest part of the sales season which is getting ready to start.

I could keep citing data and numbers all day long, but my point is the market here, while not fantastic, is not near as bad as Mr. Borgeson has described it in the last two articles the Sangre de Cristo Chronicle has interviewed him for. In closing I would like to kindly suggest that the Chronicle and Mr. Borgeson call local offices for their feedback, I did just that yesterday before writing this and everyone I talked to said that the market is down, but there are still active buyers and Agents are making sales. Everyone I talked to also said that I could quote them. I would also suggest that Mr. Borgeson might expand his data sources by joining the Board of Realtors and the MLS Paragon System.

Sincerely,

Kyle Eby
Associate Broker
Resort Properties of Angel Fire

Qualifying in the New Economy

2009-03-31T17:52:00.015-06:00

It used to be that us Realtors defined Qualifying as asking the Buyer "Will you be paying cash or financing, and what is your price range?" Fact was there were plentiful buyers who had good enough credit to get a loan, and in a sellers market sellers didn't have too much to worry about. Boy how quickly things change. In this new economy everything has to be qualified. What I mean is that Realtors have to perform serious due diligence to truly Qualify the Buyer, the Seller and the Property.

Qualifying Buyers: Two years ago it was very easy to qualify Buyers. Fact is the banks would approve almost any loan app that came across their desk based not on the Buyer's ability to pay, but on the propertie's anticipated appreciation. The Buyer was just one part of the calculation. Not anymore, now the whole qualification process is dependent on the Buyer's ability to pay. Realtors and buyers I know, including myself, got used to this part of the process being fairly easy during the boom years. As an example, we have Buyers coming in now who need financing but have not even started the pre-approval process. Many sellers, including the Banks selling their foreclosures, now require that a pre-approval letter accompany the purchase agreement. In other words, if your not paying cash, (Cash used to be King, but now it's the Dictator), have all your ducks in a row before you go shopping.

Qualifying Sellers: Wow, used to be a Realtor would get a disclosure from the seller and that was enough. In the New Economy Realtors have to be much more diligent in gathering information about the sellers and the property. In a world where many sellers are upside down on their mortgages and overall debt positions, all kinds of surprises can be thrown into a closing. In addition to upside down mortgages just a few other examples of surprises include second mortgages, delinquent taxes, delinquent home owner association fees, judgements and declining (deferred) property maintenance. When you see an upside down mortgage you can pretty much expect to see many other surprises.

Qualifying Properties: Lenders have gotten much stricter about the properties they will collateralize. Lenders scrutinize location, septic/sewer, percentage of default rates in a given location, and even cost of living index for a location that a buyer is relocating to. As just one example, lenders now want the financial statements from the Home Owners Associations of condos, homes and lots that fall under H.O.A. management. I recently had a conversation with a local mortgage broker who told me that if any Home Owner Association in Angel Fire has a delinquency rate of 15% or more they will not approve the loan. The lenders also require that the associations have substantial reserves. This is to avoid unexpected special assessments that could make a mess out of an owner's financial statement. I have seen this happen, and many Owners have lost their properties or seen closings interrupted because of H.O.A. special assessments. If you're current you might need to become more concerned about attending H.O.A. meetings to protect your equity. Your ability to sell is part of a buyer's ability to buy. In other words, if any kind of H.O.A. is part of the property, check their financials...

In closing, Buyers need to protect or repair their credit, sellers need to be sure of their ability to close, and the term "Qualified" needs to include the property. Till next time.

Kyle.

The Weekend Report & Price Reductions

2009-03-30T13:12:00.011-06:00

Before I get to the Weekend Report I want to let everyone know about a big price reduction on one of our listings. 41 Knollwood Way.
This is a almost brand new home with great added ammenities! This is a must see at this price and withn this location. Only 2 blocks from Golf Course and Angel Fire Country Club. Reduced from $329K to $299K.

HWY 434 to Country Club Drive. Right on Champions Terrace. Left on St Andrews Way. Right on Pinehurst Way. Left on Knollwood Way. Fourth house on right. HOA amenities: Pool, Golf Membership, Club House, Other Rec. Facilities.
41 Knollwood Way, Angel Fire, NM 87710, Year Built: 2005, 3 Beds, 2 Baths, Single-Family Home, 1620 SqFt.

Weekend Report: Well I took my own advise from the previous posting and took the family for a ride this weekend on the Rail Runner Express. It truly was a great time. The train was almost filled to capacity with tourists and commuters. As you can see from the pictures it is also very comfortable and modern. The Santa Fe Railyard is also a great destination with an REI Sporting Goods Super Store, galleries, bars and great dining spots.

However the highlight of our weekend was attending the PBR (Professional Bull Riders Competiton) at the Pit in Albuquerque. Wow, what an event. I had never been to a Professional Bull Riding competition before, and I was impressed. No country music here, this is a serious adrenaline packed event set to hard core rock and roll. Austin and Barbara never left their seats. Fireworks, jumbo screens, and laser lights are all part of the show, and then of course there is the actual bull riding competiton. It is amazing to be seated less than thirty feet away from a two thousand pound beast throwing around some guy like a rag doll. If you have never been to a PBR I can recommend that you put it on your calendar. Enjoy the pictures.

In closing I want to thank Curt and Karen Hanlen for giving Barbara, Austin and I the VIP treatment at the PBR.

Kyle.

Snow, Trains, & Automobiles

2009-03-27T12:53:00.004-06:00

As you can see from the picture the weatherman was pretty correct, it did indeed snow last night, probably about 5 to 6 inches. I can't help but wonder which one of the management gurus at the resort made the decision to close a week early?

Well its a good weekend to ride the train,,, "what train?" many visitors ask. If you don't know, the train I am writing about is the Rail Runner Express. The Rail Runner is our new train that connects Santa Fe's Plaza area to Albuquerque's downtown and Old Town, and then continues all the way south to Belen. The best part about these sleek and modern Trains is the fare, $9 for a day pass on weekdays, and $6 for a day pass weekends. A really cool Automobile and Train day trip is to go to Santa Fe on a Saturday morning, park at the downtown railyard, then take the train to downtown Albuquerque, stroll around Old Town, have lunch, then visit either the Botanical Gardens or the Muesem of Natural history, and then back to Santa Fe in time for Dinner and a short drive back to Angel Fire.

The best part is there are departures every couple of hours and the schedule on Saturdays runs till midnight. The trains are very modern and comfortable and are also green as they run on reclaimed grease and oil. So there you have it, there is no excuse for not riding the train. Well, I have covered snow, trains and automobiles, till next time...

Kyle.

Off Season Blues and Things to Do

2009-03-26T09:36:00.003-06:00

It almost never fails to start up snowing again just as soon as the ski area closes, and this morning is no exception. We are expected to get 8 inches or more, oh well, guess I am too eager for summer. There are however things to do in the off season, you just have to be more creative. Throughout most of April Our Place Cafe at the Cove Arts Center has live music on Fridays and Saturdays, the Ritchie/Slater Winery at Black Lake and also in Angel Fire also has live music on Fridays and Saturdays. Many restaraunts are still open in the off season, The Pizza Stop, Yu Garden, Zebs, Tres Amigos, etc. but call ahead as many cut back their hours.

Many people never think to take advantage of the great public pool in Taos, it's a great way kill snowy day blues. Of course when the weather is nice there is a multitude of outdoor activities, hiking, fishing, sightseeing, and much more. A few important dates to remember are May 5 for the Moreno Valley High School Cinco de Mayo fundraiser party at the Community Center. If you missed this last year you don't want to miss it this years. It's a lot of fun and the live music is great. Also on the calender is the Angel Fire Spring Clean Up Day May 1st. It's a great way to spend the morning seeing all the locals. Check out our link to the activities calender and see if there is something for you. Of course as us locals know, there is always work to catch up on when there is nothing else to do.

Kyle.

Snowfire 303A Huge Price Reduction

2009-03-25T12:45:00.004-06:00

Todays post is about a listing with a great price reduction...

Snowfire 303A, beautiful three bedroom (one is a loft) three bath condo with a great rental history. These are among the most desirable condos in town, reduced from $238,000 to $229,500. This makes this the lowest price 3/3 at Snowfire and one of the best deals in town. You gotta see this one, give us a call or come by.

We also have many other great deals, look at our Angel Fire and Area Featured Listings.

Kyle, Jud, & Barb.

Helmets On The Slopes, Mandatory or Not?

2009-03-24T11:48:00.004-06:00

This past week a well known celebrity, Natasha Richardson, died as a result of what seemed a slight head injury in Canada. It is unfortuante that it takes the death of a well known celebrity to shed light on the importance of skier safety. I remember when Sonny Bono died after a skiing accident, and the spotlight was put on skiier saftey for a while.

The media's hot topic over Natasha Richardson's death is whether helmets should be mandatory or not. My polictical leanings dictate that we can't legislate yet more control over our lives and freedoms. My personal side though is anyone who lets their children on the slopes without a helmet is a person acting negligently. If an adult chooses not to where a helmet that should be their free choice, but childen are often incapable of truly evaluating the risk they take when boarding or skiing without a helmet.

As the father of an ethusiastic 15 year old snowboarder, I can tell you that it is a constant struggle to make him wear his helmet, but this is my job, not the government's. I have found that many parents are simply not educated about the importance of helmets, which explains why we see so many kids without them. I have also discovered from working at ski shops, and from my wife who works at the ski school, that when you educate parents about helmets they immediately adopt a family helmet policy.

In closing, I want to stress the fact that skiing truly is a safe sport and great family activity. To see for yourself just how safe it is and get actual statistical data read this article www.ski-injury.com.

Kyle.

PS: If your children snowboard you should also know wristguards are very important.

The Last affordable Ski Town in America

2009-03-23T16:22:00.004-06:00

It is a pretty big deal when the New York Times features an article about Angel Fire which is exactly what happened on March 12. The article points out the great quality of life we have here in the valley, how affordable it is to own here, and the fact that Angel Fire is a fast growth community with the necessary infrastructure for people looking for a new lifstyle. It is great to be recognized, and rightfully so. You can view the whole article by clicking on the title above, "Last Affordable Ski Town in America."

Kyle, Barbara & Jud.

Ski Area Closing Day

2009-03-22T13:07:00.006-06:00

It is closing day here at Angel Fire and we are exactly two days into spring. This means I started today with a spring ritual here in Angel Fire, washing the car. Washing the grime of winter off the car used to be a big task here, but not anymore, we now have a car wash. If you haven't been here all winter you might not know that a local businessman opened a car wash back in October. The car wash features one fully automatic bay and two manual bays. The best part is in the winter they have automatic doors that close so you don't have to freeze your you know what off. Another sign of progress here in our little village...

Ski Season ends today, one week earlier than planned. Warm temps forced the call, but we never do much biz the last week anyway, so most of the locals are loving the 60 degree temperatures. Only real gripes I heard were from my son and his friends. Their spring break started Friday and they had planned to spend the week boarding. I told him he could spend it raking, but he didn't care for that. Here is one last look at the slopes on closing day of the 2008/2009 season.

Kyle

Taos Foreclosure

2009-03-21T20:59:00.008-06:00

Tonight Barb and I decided to have dinner in Taos and have a look at the foreclosed property at 215 La Posta Road that our office listed three days ago. In the last three days it has been shown sixteen times, so we knew we had to see it. It has tremendous potential as it sits on .91 acres, has fabulous views, and is in the middle of town behind the Albertsons grocery store. Could be remodeled as professional offices with four units, or retail with four units, or as a classic style Taos casa with art studio. Regardless it can be zoned for commercial and at $251,500 someone is quickly going to see the tremendous upside opportunity here. View all the details on our website at by clicking on the Taos Foreclosure link above.
As always we will keep you up to date on Foreclosure Opportunites.

Kyle

Ski Season Ending Sunday 3/22/09

2009-03-21T13:11:00.001-06:00

Well, it's official, Angel Fire is closing for the season tomorrow March 22. Unseasonably warm weather has melted away the snow and set the stage for Spring, also due to arrive tomorrow. Time to get out the Golf Clubs and Hiking Boots. We have had a great season though. December through much of February we had great snow, and business was brisk. The real estate business has also been holding surprisingly steady. We had lots of people in the office over the big spring break week, and they were looking for good deals on Condos, Homes, and Lots. If your thinking of selling, spring is a good time to list and the Eby Team is the perfect choice. We have many marketing initiatives planned.

I want to bring up the fact that Angel Fire has not been affected nearly as much as other parts of the country in regards to the recession. while it is true that prices have come down a bit, our customers are recognizing this as an opportunity to make an investment in real estate. Angel Fire real estate has proven itself as a much more resilient investment than other sectors such as the stock market. Add to this the fact that we have one of the best high schools in the country, we have numerous projects underway or getting ready to break ground, and we are ranked as the fastest growing municipality in New Mexico, and you have got a formula for real estate success.

Stop in and see us at our office at 52 North Angel Fire Road, and we will show you the hottest deals in town.

Kyle, Barbara & Jud