The Guide: Santa Fe
November 1, 2007
Located at the foothills of the Rockies, Santa Fe stands at an elevation of 7,000 feet and is blessed with four temperate seasons because the three surrounding mountains protect the city from extreme temperatures. Adding to the distinctive palette is a cultural richness from the Hispanic, Native and Anglo populations, each contributing different colors and character. "The City Different" is defined by its food, people, architecture, the land itself and its deep history. First an oasis for the Native Americans who originally cultivated the land, the area has been explored by conquistadors, experienced by artists and bohemians, and is now again being discovered by people seeking a better quality of life in distinct style.
Adobe was "green" long before the phrase was coined, and environmentally conscious construction is more prevalent in Santa Fe than in other parts of the country. The area offers a wonderful variety of unique architectural styles within the adobe vernacular, with three classic Santa Fe styles evolving organically from one another. Pueblo style was birthed by Pueblo Indian homes, with their soft rounded features, vigas (ceiling beams) and plastered walls. The Territorial style embodies the Spanish Colonial period, in which porches or portals, brick coping, as well as trim around the windows and doors were added. The Northern New Mexico style resulted from the heavier snowfall, adding pitched roofs and high ceilings. Now, contemporary interpretations have become more fashionable, with cleaner edges, more light and new finishes.
As a longtime resident and Realtor, I am delighted to offer suggestions for professionals in the real estate and home design fields. There are many exceptional options in Santa Fe and I recommend discussing your choices with several tradespeople.
Emily Ivette Garcia is a Santa Fe resident and an agent for Sotheby’s International Realty.
REALTORS/LENDERS
Emily Garcia (Sotheby’s International Realty, 505.955.7963,
www.emilygarcia.com). As a top Sotheby’s producer, my priority is manifesting
your vision—assisting you not just with the real estate transaction, but
building a new life in Santa Fe.
Michael Morgner (Santa Fe Properties, an exclusive Christie’s Great Estates affiliate, 505.995.6494, www.michaelmorgner.com). "I specialize in high-end primary residences, as well as second homes because Santa Fe offers a great quality of life with four gentle seasons and world-class art, dining and cultural experiences," says Morgner. One of his current listings, which is being sold by a football and TV legend and features great outdoor space in a prime location, is offered at $2.55 million. Morgner’s knowledge of the high-end market and love of Santa Fe’s beautiful climate are blended in luxury homes that include outdoor entertaining areas.
Ray Rush and Tim Van Camp (Sotheby’s International Realty, 505.984.5117, www.knowingsantafe.com). Longtime brokers Rush and Van Camp know that Santa Fe both intrigues and mystifies even the most savvy real estate buyers. "Compared to other ‘quality of life’ destinations, Santa Fe offers tremendous value," notes Van Camp. Their listings include houses on historic Upper Canyon Road ($4.8 million) and Bishops Lodge Road ($4.995 million).
Michael Umphrey (Prudential Santa Fe Real Estate, 505.946.2104, www.michaelumphreysantafe.com). Prudential Santa Fe’s top agent, Umphrey’s current listings include a 6,300-square-foot adobe-style home with panoramic views and "smart" house technology on the market for $2.895 million.
Sherry Finney (Wells Fargo, 505.984.0566, www.wellsfargo.com). In light of the recent changes in the mortgage industry, it is in buyers’ best interest to work with a competent lender. Wells Fargo is the only AAA-rated bank. Finney, branch manager and a private mortgage banker with over 25 years’ experience, can confidentially handle your entire loan process, locally or nationally. "My love of Santa Fe is tied to my family’s Native American heritage and the quality of the city," she says.
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