I've noted in a couple of recent posts that certain areas in and around Albuquerque, New Mexico actually showed increases in average home sales prices in 2008 compared with 2007. In the current recession, that's pretty remarkable! A lot of these areas were in the greenbelt along the Rio Grande, from Bernalillo and Corrales south through Bosque Farms and all the way to Los Chavez. This isn't surprising to me-- there are so few areas in New Mexico with access to abundant water for pastures, animals, crops and gardens. It makes sense that these areas would remain in higher demand than, say, the "dust-bowl" new subdivisions that sprout anew each year on the high, dry mesas.

Yet, even in the Valley areas in and around Albuquerque, the number of sales was down, indicating a sluggish market, and prompting lots of motivated sellers to offer very attractive prices! Some of my buyers got real steals last year, even in areas that still had rising property values, and the same kinds of opportunities are out there this year. Plus, there's a great incentive in the form of federal tax credits for those of you who are first-time buyers or who have not owned a home in three years.

Below are a couple of samples of Valley properties that are currently available. Just click on the links for full details and more photos, or visit our Albuquerque area website for more information on valley areas and relocation information.