Albuquerque has another name. The city has been fondly called the Duke City for years and now another name is becoming popular - The "Q." It has one advantage. It is easier to spell.

So what happened in the Q this week? Many of us in the real estate business are feeling hopeful about the market and are pleased that first-time home buyers in particular seem to be taking advantage of the large inventory and continuing low rates and other available incentives.

Of course, the housing market is only a barometer of the overall economy, so what indicators in the Q this past week are leading to positive real estate outcomes? Here are some.

The Q is still a popular destination for tourists, retirees, and job seekers.
Our stimulus package  increased to more than $3 billion.
New Mexico's unemployment rate is well below the national average.
The weather was fantastic all week and Homeland Security held its first Advisory Meeting in the Q with Secretary Napolitano, Atty General Holder and other VIPs from Washington, DC.

The Q may just be inching its way up from the #2 spot on Kiplinger's Top Ten Cities.

Eloise Gift
June 5, 2009
www.eloisegift.com