Land For Sale In Northern New Mexico Is Available In All Shapes, Sizes And Price Points

Ranging from small plots to expansive properties with hundreds of acres, Taos, New Mexico real estate varies in relation to shape, size and price. Located in the north-central part of the state about 70 miles northeast of Santa Fe, Taos offers an impressive mixture of high desert topography and mountainous terrain. People are drawn to Taos for the natural beauty of the land, the abundance of dry, sunny weather and the rustic environment. The town is also famous for its numerous art galleries, nearby world-class ski resort and the variety of outdoor activities made possible by the rich, varied surroundings. If you're thinking about buying real estate in this area, undeveloped land is in ample supply all over New Mexico. The state is divided into four primary regions, each of which offers a distinct type of topography:

• Great Plains: This area covers the eastern third of the state, and is characterized by a high plateau interspersed with deep canyons. Large livestock ranches and dry farm lands abound here.

• Colorado Plateau: This is the four corners area of New Mexico where Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona and Utah converge - the only place like it in North America. The Great Continental Divide runs through this region famous for its tablelands and extreme climate.

• Rocky Mountains Region: Located in the north-central part of the state, this area is mountainous with a moderate to cold climate. Taos is located here, as are the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

• Basin and Range Region: Covering nearly a third of the southwest area of New Mexico, this region is notable for its dispersed mountains and desert highlands.

In the area around Taos, a number of empty parcels of land can be purchased both in high desert and alpine areas. Although a desert, summer temperatures are moderate compared to other high deserts which are usually much hotter during the summertime. In the mountains, the region is teeming with practically unspoiled nature. Diverse forests and gorges dot the landscape. As might be expected in a mountainous area with very cold winters, the Rocky Mountain Region contains impressive waterfalls and abundant rivers. Probably less known are the twenty plus waterfalls in and around Taos. Many who buy Taos property do so with plans to build a vacation or rental home. Retirees are attracted to the charming town setting as well. Land parcels range in size from smaller lots, perfect for a single-family home, to larger, ranch-size parcels and everything in between. Locations vary from acreage nestled into a wooded area, close to skiing, hunting and fishing to wide open spaces. Land closer to town puts one nearer to the quaint, cultural hub of Taos.

In addition to the variety of land plots, prices vary widely. While established properties or ranches can be pricey, undeveloped acreage can often be found at a bargain prices relative to similar parcels in other parts of the country. Much of the price fluctuation is due to existing amenities onsite. A pre-negotiated well-share arrangement, or a relatively shallow water table making digging a well relatively inexpensive will increase the land value. Also, unless the property is located in an "off the grid" self-sustaining area, the availability of nearby utilities, or utilities already onsite is a selling feature as well that will make the land more attractive and therefore more expensive. With four distinct seasons, Taos offers a plethora of year-round activities for the outdoorsy person. The area is also ideal for those eager for a change in life style.

Whether one is looking for a place to relocate to, or a setting for a second home or investment property, Taos and the surrounding area has plenty of land to choose from.