Musings

6.18.13 I am in listing mode. Over the next week or so I will bring several homes, a condo and some land to market. One of them is quite spectacular, one of them is quite small. But all are priced at the market so we will see how this season goes. So far there is more optimism than results but I think that is going to start to change. Around here, in my experience, July is busier than June, August than July and September more than August. Of course this is a new world so we will see how the past predicts the future. For me, I have my seat belt on and hope for a hell of a ride.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop

6.17.13 I am looking for land buyers. There are so many opportunities out there for those with some cash and some time to hold their investments. Prices really are crazy because it is still cheaper to buy an existing home then to build. That will change, of course, and when it does those that took advantage of the times will feel real smart. If you are in a position to buy, I can help you find real deals.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop

6.16.13 I wish all those who serve the role of Dad in their families a very Happy Father's Day. For me, Dad was my favorite role in life - besides Papa. I love my beautiful wife dearly but the role of husband/lover/friend/lifepartner was always a bit more challenging. More work. I feel so blessed to have two sons that I am proud of, and 4 happy, healthy grandchildren who all love me so much. I wish the rest of you the joy I feel for my family and may you all bask in the accomplishments of those you love so much. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop

6.15.13 It isn't often one gets to pick their neighbors buy my honey and I just did. We live in town in a small condo project and I got to show another unit to a really nice couple from AL yesterday. Well, they fell if love and want to buy and we are excited because we know we will be friends. I think this match for them reflects the benefits of really listening to a client because I heard them but took their search in a different direction and scored big on matching them up with their dream. It doesn't always work that way in this business but when it does it does feel good. And we get new neighbors we really like. Can I help you match you dream to our market? Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop

6..14.13 I don't think we are into the summer weather pattern when we can get late thunderstorms almost every day but the forecast does show chance of showers each day for the next week. With the fire season starting so badly, we really need that moisture for our farmers and for our safety. About the only natural disasters we face here are fire related, and most of that is started by lighting strikes and Mother Nature, someething we just can't control. We all need to think rain and maybe we can get thru this summer with a minimun of forestry lost and keeping the brave firefighters safe. Here, we have the Carson Hot Shots, and they do a great job for us all. Thanks, folks.Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop

6.13.13 We drove south yesterday alongside the Rio Grande as we went thru the canyon between Taos and Velarde. We saw about 10 boats doing the Race Course. The water level is low so it is really more of a float then anything else but it sure is a great way to get a suntan. For those who like more exhileration, try The Box which can be very exciting when the water is high and very technical when the water is low. And there ain't much so far this year. Whichever you prefer, it is all fun and generally very safe if you listen to the guide. Those folks have other peoples lives in their hands. Sometimes but not always. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop

6.12.13 While I can't say business is booming, I can say that business is back. I am about as busy as I want to be, just yeterday putting together a deal that the buyer told me 48 hours earlier that I could not do! It seems that folks realize that both interest rates and prices are going up and now is the time to jump in. Folks are no longer coming looking for blood in the water. They are looking to by and the energy and mood is so different. Usually, things get better as we move into summer so I have good reason for optimism. In fact, today I will offer my office manager, Kat,  more time and more money as I can't do this without her. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop

6.11.13 I know I said I was done with the Mumford & Sons concert so I ask for forgiveness for this entry. But yesterday I was out and about after a busy weekend of looking after grandchildren and I asked merchants about their experience. Belle, at La Belle Cleaners, is a short block and half from the plaza and in the thick of things. She expected to rent a lot of parking spaces but got only two cars. Then I spoke to my neighbor on Placitas, Debra de la Torre, who owns Lily's a tea and garden shop. Debra expected a lot of business from the concert goers and planned accordingly.She saw three - count 'em 3 - customers all day! All day! The sense of the business community is that they were sold a bill of goods by someone, maybe the promoters, because the crowds they promised never materialized. Most think that we never had the 8K to 10K tourists expected. Those I spoke to think there were no more than 2,000 folks that came and went. And many merchants did not cover the costs of the booths they rented to make all that money. Too bad so many were so disappointed. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop

6.10.13 Twirl, so much more than a toy store, is one of the great shops in Taos. Our grandchildren love to go there and not just for what they can get us to buy. The outdoor play space is wonderful and safe and the kids love to climb all over it. But this past weekend they kindly put out water toys - we used to call them water guns but that isn't a good thing anymore - and allowed kids to play with them for free. Our two little ones were occupied safely for a long time and we just got to sit and watch them. I tip of the hat to the good people who are behind that store. Taos wouldn't be the same for the little ones without it. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop

6.9.13 With Mumford & Sons now in the rear view mirror, we can get down to the business at hand and enjoy summer. I have a feeling it will be a good one around here and that the real estate market will be better. Those reaching out to me seem intent on buying and with interest rates seemingly going up, many who can are likely to buy now. So far I don't see prices really going up but I do expect more activity and that may well push things along. I am about to list some real sweet properties, including tomorrow the home of Dr. Jim Lubowitz, a heck of an orthopedic surgeon for $1.3M. In the foothills, it is quite a place. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop

6.8.13 From what I hear and read, most local folks were satisfied with the way the Mumford & Sons concert was handled and played out. Mother Nature could have been kinder to the concert goers but that is so typical of weather in the Rockies. One never knows. The plans created for handling the crowds seems to have worked as except for the time around the concert itself, there was no sense of it being other than a normal day in paradise. And while I haven't gotten too many reports on how the merchants did economically, my take is that they were also happy. Additional money was brougt into town. In fact I heard that the hotels and motels were seeking a 3 day minimum so some of those out of towners may still be here. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop

6.7.13 Well, Mother Nature threw a curve on the Mumford & Sons parade by bringing wind and rain on the concertgoers before the festivities got under way. There was a long long line waiting to get into the park and then the moisture came. It delayed the start of the concert by about an hour. And while a lot of people got wet, their spirit was not dampened. For the most part the whole event was peaceful, although the Taos News reported:  A group of young Coloradoans were cited for selling brownies laced with marijuana. Now we will see if these folks stay around or head back from where they came. I do hope that the business folks of Taos prospered some from this event. They sure can use some of that.   Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop

6.6.13 The day has finally arrived. Mumford & Sons tonight in Kit Carson Park. The stage for this event is the largest ever assembled in this town and for those living close by it is facing north. So those folks living that way get free music. Like it or not. It seems that Civic Center Plaza will be the center of activities outside the park with booths and vendors hoping to make some money from these folks and provide for their needs. There are severe restrictions on what one can bring in to the park. No food. Only a little water. No chairs but blankets allowed. We will see how it all plays out, but I for one am excited and going. More on this tomorrow.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop

6.5.13 I expect we will see some folks arriving today for the concert tomorrow night. There are so many questions about how all this is going to play out and the anwers ought to be forthcoming in the next few days. Where will these people park? Eat? Sleep? How long will they stay? How will the merchants respond to this unique opportunity? And will those that come want to come back? I sure hope we pull this off because it could really be a significant event. Now we just have to hope that we don't get any rain because there is really little shelter in Kit Carson Park.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop

6.4.13 Things may be changing around here. I submitted an offer on behalf of a client who flew in from NC to work with me. It was a reasonable offer but certainly less than asking price. The seller came back and would not budge on price and my client decided to pay it. I haven't seen a seller hold their price in at least 5 years and think that this is a significant event. Stay tuned to see or read how all this plays out but it seems that better days are on their way - whether prices rise or not this season. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop

6.3.12 I wonder what is going on at Graham's Grille, one of the most popular restaurants we have in this town, right off the entrance to the plaza. It seems that neither Peter or Lesley Fay, the owners, are around and I heard they are in Mexico. While I love that country and can understand folks wanting to be there, one can't expect a business like that one where cost controls are so important to run well without an owner's hand on the till. I do hope this all shakes out well as I like those guys and think they did a real good job. I didn't get it when they doubled their space a year or so ago but what do I know! Anyway, they employ a lot of good folks and I'd hate to see those jobs lost.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop

6.2.13 There is a lot of chatter around town about the Mumford & Sons concert this Thursday night and the number of people coming to town. There are ball park 6,000 people who live in Taos. There are up to 10,000 peeps expected to arrive later this week. What will that look like? How long will they stay? Will most stay in our hotels and B & Bs or just find a place to camp? Will those of us who live here be able to get out and about or will the crowds suffocate this place? This really is uncharted territory for this paradise so we all will watch and see how it plays out. For me the key is that Taosenos are welcoming and provide really friendly customer service. We need to make those folks feel welcome so they want to come back. I don't think we can overemphasize the importance of this event for all of us. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

6.1.13 Summer Saturday mornings call out for a visit to the Farners Market in the parking lot of Town Hall where one can buy good food and also see friends. It is a Taos tradition and something I always look forward to. Some times there are musicians playing or a woman putting on a puppet show for the kids. I love to stroll the area as the offerings are so beautiful and attractive. There isn't a lot of produce to buy yet but each week will bring more right into September. Grab your food bags and I'll see you there. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.31.13 Orlando Ortega, of Orlando's and The Station Cafe gave me his understanding of why so few bikers were in Taos over the Memorial Day weekend. As he was told, there was word on the street that two biker gangs were planning on getting it on at the Red River Rally. As a result, many stayed away out of fear. Well if that is true, and it sounds like a legitimate story, then my view of all these gray beards taking naps may be way off. I just feel badly for the business people here. Orlando said he wasn't nearly as busy as he expected over those 3 days. Whether or not it is true, I find it interesting. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.30.13 There is a lot of talk about the Mumford & Sons concert a week from tonight in Kit Carson Park. This is an opportunity for this town to shine that it rarely has had. We are told that somewhere between 8,000 and 10,000 folks will be coming to town and that is a lot for us. Where those folks will park their cars, how long they will stay and how much they will spend are all unknowns. Our job, as folks living here, is to make each and every one of those folks feel at home, like we are glad they are here and that we want them to come back. I see that as basic stuff but I will say that some folks who have lived here there whole lives may not be as enthusiastic about the coming hordes as I am. Stay tuned for more on this.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.29.13 Two items to report today. First, The Taos Town Council has approved a budget that would implement a charge for some library cardholders starting July 1. This has caused some real controversy as some feel that public libraries by their nature need to be free. The other item is that the County terminated the contract of the attorney who has been held that position since Jake Caldwell was wrongfully teminated by a prior County Commission. I don't know enough about her to know if this is a loss but I have more confidence in this board doing the right thing then the last one.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.28.13 Business and community leaders gathered last week to discuss ways to help Taos move forward despite the hits taken during the Great Recession. There was talk of improving education, enlightening business owners on how to do better at customer service and how to grow our stagnant economy. Needless to say a robust real estate industry would help out but we depend very much on that portion of our economy and tourism. There will be ample oppotunities for our business folks to "step up" as they say in sports, starting with all those out of towners due next week for the Mumford & Sons concert. I sure hope our people seize this moment. I sure hope. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.27.13 While I wish it wasn't the case, the drought conditions we live with almost constantly, require special behaviors, whether we like it or not. The Taos News announced that Carson National Forest entered Stage 1 fire restrictions Tuesday (May 21). Stage 1 restrictions prohibit building campfires outside developed recreation sites where grills and grates are provided, and smoking except within enclosed vehicles or buildings or within an three-foot area that has been cleared of flammable materials. Gas stoves and lanterns are also allowed in three-foot areas cleared of flammable material. Fireworks are never allowed on Forest Service lands. Please be aware of this limitations and obey these rules while they are in effect.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.25.13 One can hear the rolling thunder from about any place here. I live just one block off the main drag so I hear plenty. I love the sounds for these 3 days but then I want my quiet back. Many of those coming will find their way to the Vietnam Memorial outside Angel Fire. I know my office manager is going that way today to honor her recently passed partner who was a Vietnam guy. If you've never been to the Memorial, you ought to go when you are here. Created by a father who lost a son to the war, it is now controlled by the State so their is funding for it. Whether or not you supported the war back then, assuming you are old enough to have lived thru it, one feels for the men who fought. Happy Memorial Day and happy summer!  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.24.13 The Memorial Day weekend is always special around here because of the bikers that come to the Enchanted Circle. While Red River is the official site for the riders, they spend most of the 3 days on their bikes riding from town to town. There was a time when these guys would tear things up but now that most are gray bears, there is less hootin' and a hollerin' and more riding. Drunken brawls are a thing of the past and these days businesses compete for the business the guys and their gals bring. I do hope the weather is warm and dry so those good folks are safe. We do want them enjoying themselves. And coming back. Listen for the rolling thunder. Actually, one can't escape it. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.23.13 I need to give a shout out to the Leaping Lizards School and the owner and director, JIll Sanger.  Our grandson Theo graduated yesterday after being there for 4 years. Heck, they took that boy when he was under 2 and still in diapers. Jill has a real love for kids and it shows in everything they do. Even the graduation ceremony was special with each child having an individual part and then songs sung collectively. It was very very sweet. If any one out there needs a pre-school for a child I give this one an A+. Our other grandchild here, Amelie, may follow her brother's footsteps in a year or so. Thanks, Jill, for all you do for Taos kids.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.22.13 There are more signs that land may be back. Commercial as well as residential. I see two larger tracts have closed and a 45 acre parcel in El Prado, which seems to be real good is now under contract. It is bound to happen and just a matter of when. It also supports my view that we will see what the new normal is.this season. I am ever optimistic that better days are almost behind us but we all know that an international event could send this back off the rails. One day at a time is the best philosophy as far as I am concerned. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.21.13 After missing their first announced opening day, Martyr's Steak House, a creation of Dennis Coca, the guy who owns the ACE Hardware stores here, is about to open., I saw folks eating outdoors at lunch yesterday so they must be testing the kitchen and the menu. I understand that they will now open for dinner tomorrow night so I wish them success. The location seems good and while the parking on premises is limited, they probably will use the Kit Carson park lot for overflow. Now the question becomes is Taos ready for a steak house with all the vegetarians and vegans we have. I won't be against Dennis who has a real good track record of success. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.20.13 I need to give a shout out to Katie Thomas who owns and runs Moxie, a great store on the main drag thru town north of the plaza. Katie features fair trade and home made items and makes a lot of the merchandise herself. She has been very successful and seems like a natural at retail. Katie is going to open a second store right next door to the north and will sell yarn, an item that has become hard to come by in this town. I hope and expect she will have another success on her hands as she gets retail. And she deserves the success she has achieved. You go girl! Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

 5.19.13 The First Annual Lilac Festival is this weekend and there is entertainment and goings on aplenty. The Lions Club has their carousel set up and they usually break it out just once a year. Our grandson liked it so much he went on twice, around devouring a chocolate ice cream cone from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. There are booths in the plaza and there was a old car show that featured some cool trucks. Maybe some folks drifted into our newest restaurant - they keep opening, don't they - called Mosaic, in the lobby of The La Fonda Hotel. I do hope a lot of folks turn out for this event so there is a second annual one next year. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.18.13 Maybe, just maybe the land buyers are coming back. I put a 4 acre parcel under contract yesterday, admittedly at a low price but the sellers were glad to accept it. Then I saw that another parcel that was marketed to developers closed. While not yet a pattern, it does speak to the value deals out there. One needs only cash and the ability to sit on the land for a while for there to be profits available. As they say, they aren't making more land and folks may be waking to that old adage now.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.17.13 There is so much going on in town and so much to write about, I am going to give some information without great depth today. First, the town is considering shutting the convention center as no good ideas for repurposing the facility has been received. Second, the town is making plans for the folks expected for the Mumford & Sons concert. There will be booths and promotions and closed streets and all kinds of things anticipating crowds. The County Commission found that the 8300 sq ft Dollar Store that wanted to come into El Prado, did not "fit in" with the community. I think their rejection will stand the scrutiny of a court which is likely to be next if the applicant appeals.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

 5.16.13 The business folks in this community are going to try and seize upon the Mumford & Sons Concert early next month to really set up shop for the 8,000 folks expected for the show. While a good number of them will be locals, a bigger number of them will come from out of town. And they will be carrying money or credit cards. A whole festival is planned with entertainment, booths and programming to keep people interested and happy. It is good to see some forward thinking and I sure hope that those who invest money in this event get a return. Equally important, I hope all those that come have a real good time and want to come back. That surely is a goal here and a good one. Now we just have to pull this off.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.15.13 The Taos County Commission unanimously voted to stop the development of a Family Dollar retail store in El Prado, capping a heavily attended public hearing. The vote was 4 - 0. While I am in favor of business and development in general, I also think we have enough of these discount stores. Besides, an 8000 sq ft one is just too big for that area where everything is more Mom & Pop. I know things are bound to change but I don't feel this is the change we have been waiting for. Now we have to hope that if the applicant sues, we can sustain this position in a court of law. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.14.13 The legal battle over who gains control of the local airport and who gets the revenue that will flow from that after the expansion is only getting ugly. But isn't that what happens when folks fight rather than negotiate? The Town now professes that it has 5 good reasons why it ought to be the victor but the County will probably counter that they have 6. The budget cuts that each side uses to influence the debate will come regardless if they don't stop the wasteful spending on this litigation. Can't we all just get along?!?!? Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.13.13 I wonder how long it will be before land makes any comeback. Homes seem poised to but land lingers. It remains a function of the price of construction but folks don't seem willing to buy and hold anymore and that was something people did all the time before all this. A client just lowered her prices and land she expected to sell for a lot more. And that is just the way it is and will be for a while. If you have some cash, this is a time to get some real deals on land. I keep expecting that corner to be turned but I see nothing now that leads me to believe we are on our way out of that hole. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.12.13 May all the mothers in this world have a warm and fuzzy day. Where would we be without the nurturers? No place. We owe such a debt of gratitude to the females who do so much for the rest of us. I was blessed with a great Mom and our sons can say the same thing. Happy Mother's Day to all.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.11.13 There is an arts and crafts fair in Kit Carson Park today, running the whole weekend. While some of these shows are better than others, the number has been reduced because of complaints from merchants in town. They seem to have a very narrow approach to business, fearing those shows and that the buyers they attract will take money out of the pockets with those who have occupy sticks and bricks stores. I think that it bunk, that folks who come to town spend money in many places and don't just bring their bucks to the park and then leave. I don't think we ought to be afraid of competition as business owners but give folks who do come to town a reason to shop around. What is good for one of us tends to be good for all of us. Or so I see it. By the way, my honey who walked the show said it wasn't so great this time.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

 5.10.13 A final note on the Station Cafe for now. My honey and I went last night on their 2 day open. The place was packed and both Orlando and Yvette were on premises. The menu is eclectic with burgers, burritos, fish and chips and pasta. Smartly, there are items for under $10 and nothing more than $17 that I saw. The staff all had on their T shirts, with the name and logo of the restaurant, the tables were from Frank Seckler, my honey noted, and the service was remarkably prompt for a new place. For those that don't know, Taosenos love anything new but this is likely to have staying power. Heck, there was a long line for weeks at the KFC when it opened some years back. KFC!!! Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.9.13 Well, I was right about the Station Cafe that opened for business yesterday. I was driving past it when I saw Orlando Ortega, he of Orlando's outside this new restaurant struggling to put up a sign.l I pulled over to talk to him and he is the guy behind the new eating place. He and Yvette, his beautiful and talented wife. Orlando tore the inside apart and invested quite a bit of money into making changes. He tied it up with a 5 year lease with options so he is committed to this. Orlando started with a hot dog wagon on the plaza and has grown his business to the point that his first restaurant is probably one of the most successful in this market. I expect the same for the Station Cafe but I do wonder where Orlando is going to put all those cars as there isn't much parking on site. Good luck, Orlando and Yvette. They are good folks and deserve the success they have. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

 5.8.13 There are two new restaurants about to open in Taos. The first is a steak house being created by Dennis Coca who owns the two Ace Hardware stores here. Dennis is going to run it himself in a building he rehabbed on the corner or the main drag and Civic Center Drive. The second, called The Station Cafe is opening soon in the space that was vacated by Lula's. My instincts suggest that it may be Orlando Ortega of Orlando's fame but I could be way off on this one. It is just that all the outside tables reminds me of his thinking at the place that bears his name. I do know he was kind of bored despite his success so he may be ready for more business. Stay tuned for further reports. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.7.13 There is a postive feeling going into this summer season by many business owners here in town. After years of real struggle - face it folks, even in good times this place has tough times - there appears to be reason for optimism. Folks see 8000 people due in less than 4 weeks for the Mumford & Sons concert which is a big deal for this small town. Then they point to the expectation that the new Rio Grande Monument established just recently will bring tourists to town who might not otherwise come. Let's just hope that this season delivers on its promise as folks here can sure use some better days. As an eternal optimist, I see what those people see and now we hope the season delivers. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.6.13 We all owe a debt of gratitude to Vishu Magee who has started and promoted an organization dedicated to non violence, especially in men. He has done a great job, having been acknowledged by the President some time back. Now, Vishu brings us "The Art of Nonviolence", a show featuring young artists at the Encore Gallery at the Taos Community Auditorium. Please come out and support Vishu and the artists showing their work. Being nonviolent is good thing that all ought to aspire to. Thanks, Vishu, for all you do for the community. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.5.13 Governor Martinez was in town last week. She had a big fund raiser at El Monte Sagrado where the entry fee was $10,000 a plate. Not an affordable price for regular folks but those weren't the people The Gov was seeking. Some say that her 10 minute meetings with locals earlier in the day was just a way to balance the bad publicity she was going to get for her high priced fund raiser. Now who would be so sceptical in their thinking?!?! Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.4.13 The elections for the Board at Kit Carson Electric Coop will be held on May 14th. While I don't often get involved in politics here, I do want to support David A. Torres in the 1st District. David has skill sets and life experiences that well qualify him to continue to serve the community in this capacity. He has served his town, state and country well, has been involved in helping save lives due to major disasters all over the world. Yet David is grounded in our culture and lives here in Taos. He is a man of integrity and seeks to serve the people rather than himself. And isn't that refreshing. Please support David. He deserves it.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.3.13 It seems that the new minor league baseball team, The Taos Blizzard, is going to have their first season coming up, using the Taos High School field as their home base. They will play 70 games in 72 days with about 20% of them played here. The season opener is May 15th before which there will be tryouts and a brief spring training. The goal is to turn the guys they get into a team, which they need to be to compete. I sure hope they are fun to watch and that the folks here turn out to support them. Cool logo, too. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.2.13 A shout out to my Jersey girl Diana Sakai, who has opend Koko's with her husband in the Martinez Plaza on the south side where The Bean dominated the market as a coffee shop for years. Diana has sold her prepared foods thru Cid's for a long time but now will be trying retail directly. Cid offered her a job within the company taking care of the prepared foods part of his business but she preferred owning and I can see why. We stopped in and bought some real good fresh food and took it home to eat. Here is wishing Diana the best of luck. She is a real good person who has worked hard for years and now has made her dream a reality. You go girl! Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

5.1.13 While the stats for the 1st QTR of 2013 show an increase in home sales and prices - median and not a reflection that prices themselves are going up - land sales continue to be almost dead. The only deals I see are those where the buyer steals something. There is clearly no sign of retail prices. I tell clients to hold their noses and go as low as they can if they want to sell dirt. I guess until construction costs become more modest, the move for existing homes will remain the same. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.30.13 1st Qtr stats are in and they show what we all seem to know. The real estate market was up a bit but nothing to rave about. No choruses of Happy Days are Here Again. At least not yet. I think we will roll along the bottom for a while until we got more demand and then prices will rise. it is inevitable and each day the Dow rises onlty helps. The fear seems to be gone and we all seem to be getting used to the new normal, whatever that looks like.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.29.13 Well, it looks like the worst of April is over. Not that it was so bad but the weather can and does change dramatically from day to day and sometimes hour to hour. Yesterday the day time high was in the mid 70s and it is supposed to be again and tomorrow. This gives us a sweet taste of what is to come because once we get to Mother's Day we are usually just fine till the end of October. Having said that, we did get over 20 inches of snow one Memorial Day since I moved here in 1994 but that melted right away once it stopped and the sun came out. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.28.13 With an assist from The Taos News I can report that  a new graffiti abatement program targeting areas of Taos where such vandalism is common has been launched. About a dozen volunteers gathered Saturday morning with Taos police chief Ken Koch and Judge Jeff McElroy heading the group. Among the volunteers were students from Taos High School and youths convicted of criminal damage charges who are now cleaning up graffiti as part of their sentence. This is a well intended program that will hopefully stay committed to this task and chase away those that make our town look not so pretty. Be gone, folks. and let us be done with you. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.27.13 Taos is considered an eco-friendly place with eco-friendly people. Now comes a story in the Taos News that says that statistically we are not what we seem. According to this article we recycle only 4% of our waste, the rest going in to our landfills. I'm not sure who they do their math but come on people, we need to be better at this. Or we will lose our reputations. Maybe we just need more drop off sites. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.26.13 I need to give some love to Patricia Michaels of the Taos Pueblo who made it to the finals of Project Runway but did not win. The show went to the home towns of each contestant at the end so the world who watched got to see the Pueblo itself, where Patricia grew up.  Most folks have no reference points for the adobe structure that has housed the Tiwa for almost 1000 years. Not like any tenement in any city anywhere.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.25.13 The KTAO Solar Center has become a venue for live concerts and really good music. Tonight. James McCartney, son of Paul, will be the featured act. These concerts have added a lot to the music and social seen and I am so glad that the new owners of KTAO - well, not so new now - are expanding their offerings and doing it so well. Brad Hockmeyer, the former owner, had problems with noise and the neighbors but these new folks seem to avoid all that. Good for them and good for the community.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.24.13 There is a new sign ordinance being kicked around by the Town Council and it will be up for a vote in its revised form on May 1. My problem is more with enforcement than in the legislative part as some businesses are in clear violation and no one does anything about it. Oh, the charm of Taos. There is one cafe whose sign is about half the size of the building and that is a clear violation and visible to all who go to the plaza from the south. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.23.13 Patients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery at Holy Cross Hospital are spending less time in the operating room and less likely to suffer post-operative complications than patients elsewhere in the U.S., according to a survey by Orthopedics This Week. The journal named Holy Cross as one of the top 25 hospitals in the country for the knee operation. In simple terms. the average cost of one of these procedures throughout the country is $7,000 but that number goes down to under $3,000 at HCH. The credit here goes to Dr. Jim Lubowitz and his partner Jeb Reid who do those procedures that led to this finding. Nice work, guys. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.22.13 The Town of Taos has some disgruntled employees, it seems. There is a survey being circulated to try and get to the bottom of this. One of the considerations is merit based pay, which always seems like a good idea to me if utilized honestly and not a means to favor some politically. We will see how this plays out as it still is an employers market.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.21.13 Well, it seems that we are leaving late winter weather for some late spring weather starting today. The forecast for this week is for sun and temps between the low 60s and 70. However, the wind will be with us to around Mother's Day when we all will be happy to see it go. And we are grateful we don't live in OK where the wind is even worse this time of year. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.20.13 Lots of folks are expected to visit Colorado today because it is April 20th or 420. Some may know that this is a code name for marijuana in some circles. Now that pot is legal here - I am visiting family - thousands are expected to come and visit to indulge themselves legally. I did notice a guy standing outside a coffee shop in San Luis on our way here smoking from a bong. At first I thought I was seeing things but then remembered that pot was legal here and I probably did see what I saw. I have asked family here is they saw any differences in their every day lives because of the change in laws here and they said no. Which is likely a good thing.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.19.13 A group of local folks has appealed the grants of approval for the Family Dollar store of some 8000 sq ft just south of Orlando's. I don't know their chances but I hope they win. We already have a Family Dollar, a Walmart and we have a Dollar General going up on the south side next to the South Side Spa. Ain't that enough of that kind of store? My wife prefers Nordstrom's. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.18.13 The weather has been so April. Just as the hummingbirds have come back, so did the snow. We had some yesterday throwing us back into late winter. Not good for those little guys. But after today we get back to spring and the weather ought to be great for more high level soccer play at the Eco Park on Salazar Road. If you are in town, come on out. You won't be disappointed. Snacks and refreshments are available thanks tot he Taos High School culinary group. And they deserve our support as well. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.17.13 I went to Lambert's in the old Apple Tree space on Bent Street to see what it looked like now. They are working with the dinner menu that they had in their former location and prices for entrees are mostly in the $30s, with one item at $39 and a few under $30. The lunch menu is prices slightly higher than most but not as expensive. And the interior is so nice now. The biggest change is upstairs where they took the wasted space and turned it into a cool bar and seating area. I'm told that it is already the hot spot in Taos for the bar goers. Heck, there were even a few folks sitting outside in the back courtyard under the apple tree which is about as nice an outdoor space as we have. I think Nat Troy and his people will kill here as tourists and locals always went here with the walk in trade and the easy parking across the street. A also want to give a shout out to Ian, a young man who I hope does great waitering there.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.16.13 On a day when my heart is filled with sadness for the victims of the terrorist attack on the Boston Marathon, I thought I'd bring you something light. Did you know that if you ask an American to put up 3 fingers he or she will show the middle three fingers on a hand. Ask the same question of an Italian and he will put up the last three including the pinkie. Yet ask a Mexican and he or she will put up the first 3 fingers of a hand, including the thumb. I find that interesting and now you know. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.15.13 Unique to northern NM are acequias or ditches of surface water that allows for sharing among property owners who have rights to it. It is the lifeblood of agriculture here and there are bodies of law and lore that relate to it. Run by a Mayordomo, all those who have such rights must share in the chore of cleaning that ditch out each spring so the water can run. It is usually a day or a weekend and attendance and participation is mandatory if you want water. BTW, these rights are a tangible asset and can be sold separate and apart from the land.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates reatly and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.14.13 I have already made disclosure that the guy who runs the Eco Park for the town is my cousin. So that is out there. But having been to the park yesterday to support Joel and the program, I can only say that his situation - meaning the support being given to the program  by the Town is only getting worse. I don't know where this all goes.  Besides being told that they don't want to know about this any more, the poor guy had to deal with no electric at the facility for hours, two teams that called to say they weren't coming into the weekend itself, and of course the April winds that make it hard to sit in those stands. Damn, this thing seems cursed and the town seems to forget how much money they sunk into what is rapidly becoming the highest price and best recreational soccer field in this country. And a collosal waste of money. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.13.13 There will be some great soccer matches at the Eco Park today and tomorrow and the weather ought to be perfect for these games.  The UNM mens and womens teams will square off against teams from the University of Denver and the competition ought to be fierce. There are vendors on site and refreshments to be had and it is a great venue to watch all day long. Pay $5 as an adult and come and go as you like. Since this is Taos, they are working on the honor system. I hope to see you there. Oh, one more thing... a tip of the hat to Joel Israel, the guy behind all this and a family member of mine.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates reatly and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.12.13 There was another 7 figure closing this week, just over $1M. It was in the Stakeout area, in the foothills south of Town in the El Mirador subdivision. Set on a 15 acre parcel - oversized for that location - was rastra construction, beautifully built and sold at $300 a sq ft "all in". That is a good price for a 3500 sq ft home but we still can't seem to get to $1.1M. Maybe this season at the rate we are going. While this is good, another big and beautiful home sold at about $200 a sq ft in Des Montes as a result of a short sale. So the mixed signals continue with fewer of the nagatives and more of the positives as we continue to work our way thru this. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates reatly and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.11.13 Two bits of information I want to share. First, the County is suing the Town over the expansion of the Town to include the airport. Now a Judge gets to decide and a lot of taxpayer money gets wasted. What a shame. So nothing will happen here until the trial is over and the losing side appeals. Not the way we want our leaders to go about things but what we got. Also, the new marketing slogan for the Town is Adventures de Taos. That slogan is all over town on notices on light posts and likely being seen all over the country as we try and lure tourists and visitors. It can't be worse then last year's which I can't recall and don't want to. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates reatly and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

 4.10.13 The Town Council has now made a priority the re-thinking of the use being made of the spaces we call the Convention Center on Civic Center Drive. The current structures get little use the way they are and the real estate has some real value so close to the plaza. In fact. the idea is being called a "top priority." It will be interesting to see how interesting the ideas are that are put forward and whether politics plays any role in the eventual decision. With this council that might happen as much as that may surprise you!!! Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates reatly and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.9.13 I ran some numbers for a client who needs to sell a house yesterday. He, like many, is stuck because he hoped the rules of economics did not apply to him and that he could get more then the market was willing to bear. Despite my warnings. Anyway, we looked at the number of homes sold in our core market - meaning no Angel Fire or Chama or Red River, etc. - and in the last year, FOUR homes had sold at $700K or above. Therein lies the rub for those trying to sell upper end homes. The competition for the few buyers who have appeared around here can be fierce and that keeps prices down. I am encouraging some reality to this gent and I think he can see for himself that the numbers don't lie. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates reatly and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.8.13 The Taos Ski Valley shut its doors yesterday for the season. In some years, we get late season snows and the hardcore folks go back and hike up the hill so they can ski down. That isn't for everyone because it is a lot of work but you can't keep some folks away from fresh powder regardless what the calendar says. We may get some moisture up there in the next few days so we will see how many it draws to the mountain.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates reatly and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.7.13 Before I start this rant, let me first make full disclosure. Joel Israel, the guy behind the Eco Park thru the Taos Sports Alliance is my first cousin once removed. There, I told you. Now yesterday I went with my grandson to the Park and watched some really good soccer being played. Two women's soccer teams engaged in a real battle. It was the 3rd match of the day and there were going to be a lot more and a full slate for today. But so far we have the best recreational soccer field in the nation and not much more. One needs 3 fields to run tournaments and that was the original plan. It seems that after construction of the first field, the town council decided to go in different directions and now Joel is told that it will be 2017 at the earliest that the town will have money to complete what they started. They have encouraged Joel to try and find a private investor to come up with the money. Ha! Fat chance of that happening. So we will continue to have too much money invested in a property that can't generate the income planned for it. I think the governing body needs to rethink their priorties and establishing new income streams for this community ought to be a paramount concern.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates reatly and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.6.13 If you enjoy soccer please come out to the Taos Eco Park on Salazar Road today and over the next few weekends as Joel Israel - my cousin - and the Taos Sports Alliance have set up a full schedule of matches for our viewing pleasure. You may know that we have one of only four 2 Star FIFA fields in the country and the one at the highest elevation. This is a world class facility but until the town comes up with the money to finish the project and add to more fields, the money spent so far will have been wasted. One can't run tournaments with just one field. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates reatly and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.5.13 It appears that Judge Sarah Backus has signed an Order that ought to put an end to the issues caused by the filing of a false deed in the Arroyo Hondo Land Grant area. Once signed, the defendants have a period in which they can file an appeal but that doesn't seem likely based on the positions they took at the hearing. I believe that is 30 days before it becomes final. It is about time that the good folks who live there can buy and sell property and enough harm has been done in the name of politics or whatever else those folks claim. It was always the wrong thing to do and now that will be righted in early May. I hope. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates reatly and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.4.13 The talk of the town is all about the Mumford & Sons concert and getting tickets. We picked up two last night when we got notice that we had won the right to buy. I just checked in with a friend who got notice but tried to buy when they were gone. In hindsight maybe we ought to have bought all 4 we were available to buy and shared them. Yikes. But we are going to the concert which will be a hot ticket.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey& associates reatly and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.3.13 I am pleased to report that there is some early interest in our market. I am getting calls about properties and have two clients considering making offers one on land and one on commercial property. Since it has been almost dead thru May these last several years I see this as a good sign that we are out of the real mess. There is work to be done to bring the level of all boats up but this does feel different and right now different is good. Follow me on Facebook at harvey& associates reatly and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.2.13 This article in The Taos News http://www.taosnews.com/news/article_3524f89c-988a-11e2-8622-001a4bcf887a.html says that real estate is to be reassessed each year by our Tax Assessor, now the very nice Darlene Vigil. I don't see how they are equipped to do that and Darlene acknowledges that some areas have slipped thru the cracks. My concern is always with political favors rather then just misses and hope she does not allow that to go on. We all need to pay our fair share and hopefully it will play out that way. There is just no way that an annual reassessment is practical or can happen. In my view... Follow me on Facebook at harvey& associates reatly and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

4.1.13 Taos is loaded with folks who treasure the outdoors and the activities provided by our mountains, rivers and streams. Right about now, many of those folks start thinking about the sports that they will participate in once the mountain closes next weekend. The hiking and water rafting and golf take hold, even some frisbee golf. There is always something to do outdoors in this part of the world and most who live here are drawn to all that. Follow me on Facebook at harvey& associates reatly and on Twitter at @taospremierprop.

3.31.13 I love the feeling of Sundays in Taos. For me it means going out to breakfast with my honey and usually our grandson. While there are many places to go, my two favorites are Gutiz and the Taos Diner on the north side. They have very different feels, one a little more Europe and the other all funky Taos. The former is usually peaceful, the latter a bit noisy. But they both represent some of what Taos is these days. And choices in life are always a good thing. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop

3.30.13 The Taos County Commission is mulling raising property taxes to fund millions of dollars worth of road upgrades, capital projects and equipment purchases. The projects would be paid for by issuing general obligations bonds, the sale of which would have to be approved by voters. County manager Stephen Archuleta says the county needs additional funds to catch up on road repairs and update machinery. He also said county bridges are in need of work. I guess we need to do what we need to do but raising taxes in Taos can be problematic because so many folks are just getting by as it is. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop

 3.28.13 The president signed a proclamation Monday morning (March 25) declaring the Río Grande del Norte, in Taos and Río Arriba counties, a 242,555-acre National Monument. This is big stuff for environmentalists and outdoor folks. The celebrations have begun and people are happy about this.  Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop

3.27.13 There is so much going on right now and so much to report, this will be a multi issue note with not too much depth. But watch for more on each. First, tickets for Mumford & Sons can be obtained only thru lottery and will cost $50 a pop. A lot for Taos. Second, the Town has obtained a grant and will expand its water service to the Weimer foothills. And, the Town is seeking proposals thru RFP for "repurposing" the convention center on Civic Center Drive. This seems like a good idea because the present facility doesn't get the use it was hoped for. And it is in a great location just a block or so from the plaza. A lot going on. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associates realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop

3.26.13 Almost unbelievable news for music fans. The good folks that run the Solar Fest announced yesterday that Mumford & Sons will be lilve in concert in Taos on June 6th. No kidding. This is a free standing concert and not a part of the festival itself. For our small town in the Rockies to pull this off is great and having a venue for them to play in is unique for a town our size and a part of how this happened. There will be a lottery for tickets as a sell out isn't a question. Heck, I even expect scalping of tickets but we will see. I know my honey wants me to get us two and I will have to just keep my fingers crossed. Follow me on Facebook at harvey & associated realty and on Twitter at @taospremierprop

3.25.13 I am glad to see that something is being done about this issue that I have addressed some time back. I am going to take some of an article in The Taos News and give them credit for the following:

A group of concerned volunteers spent three days last week replacing rubber tire mulch at Kit Carson Park with gravel.

The use of recycled “crumb rubber” in Taos’ playgrounds became a controversial issue after th