Las Cruces Dream Team http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/ Las Cruces Dream Team http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/ http://www.guidetolascruces.com/assets/files/images/logo_rss.jpg en-us Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:41:59 -0600 Labor Day fun with local wine and grape stomping http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/labor_day_fun_with_local_wine_and_grape_stomping/ Wed, 01 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0600 StartFragment

The 2010 Harvest Wine Fest is happening this Saturday, Sunday, and Monday at the Southern New Mexico State Fairgrounds.  For just $15 you get a souvenir wine glass and taste after taste of all the delicious local wines. 

Along with 16 participating wineries, there will be live music, arts, crafts, specialty food products, and of course grape stomping contests every hour!

You can’t bring Fido or Fluffy, but anyone else under 21 is free if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, so bring the whole gang out for some sunshine and to slosh around in a grape stomping contest (don’t worry, I don’t think they use what is stomped this weekend for their future wines haha).

And if you know me, you know I'll be in search of the all-too-famous slushy wine margarita.  On a hot afternoon they really can seem like The Perfect Margarita!  They have them every year...perhaps just for me! ;)

For more details or to purchase your tickets in advance, visit click here.

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]]> Las Cruces Dream Team http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/labor_day_fun_with_local_wine_and_grape_stomping/ 2nd Annual SalsaFest http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/2nd_annual_salsafest/ Thu, 26 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0600 StartFragment

Everything salsa—red and green, dancing, music, food, craft vendors, fun… Yes, this Sunday is the 2nd Annual Main Street SalsaFest from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Downtown Mall, between Las Cruces Avenue and Griggs Street.  Thousands of salsa enthusiasts are expected to participate in the judging of the 19 competitors’ salsa.  The 2009 Homestyle champion, Soccoro Lopez, is even returning to the event in order to defend her title.  In the restaurant category La Nueva Casita Café, Nopalito Restaurant (the defending champion of the restaurant category in 2009), and El Patron Café & Catering have all signed-up to represent.

It free admission, but if you want to be part of the tasting, a $3 wristband will allow you to taste all the salsas and vote for your favorite.  The top three finalists will go before the SalsaFest Celebrity Panel to vie for the $500 first prize.  Celebrity judges include: Manny Arrieta, district judge; Barbara Couture, NMSU president; Margie Huerta, Dona Ana Community College president; Carrie Hamblen, KRWG new reporter; Fernando Macias, district judge; Marvin Menzies, NMSU men’s basketball coach; and Miguel Silva, aka Captain Salsa, Las Cruces city councilor.

If your mouth catches on fire early on in the day, you can let it cool off a bit while you check out the demonstrations of Zumba and Timba aerobic exercises, or take the kids around different booths for them to participate in chile art, games, face-painting, or get their energy out in a jumping balloon. 

We’ll see who can bring the heat without forgetting the flavor!

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]]> Las Cruces Dream Team http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/2nd_annual_salsafest/ NOW is the time to buy or sell a home http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/now_is_the_time_to_buy_or_sell_a_home/ Sat, 21 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0600 In Las Cruces, NOW IS THE TIME for Selling and Buying a Home!
The opportunity for buying a home right now is the best that it has been in the last 20 years. 3- Sentences sums it up:
1- Mortgage Interest Rates are the lowest they have EVER been.
2- There is an excellent selection of homes available.
3- Las Cruces Home Prices are a "steal." (US News & World Report, 2010)

Worried about Selling? Hear horror stories? Remember, after you sell, you are a buyer, and you get to take advantage of a far greater gain than any problems you might have selling your present home.

Sometimes someone else can sum up a situation better than I can. So I have attached this 90 second entertaining and informative video summary: "WHY NOW?"

 

This video was produced by Lennar Construction. They are New Home builders. They do not build in the New Mexico market, but their message is appropriate for Las Cruces.

]]> Las Cruces Dream Team http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/now_is_the_time_to_buy_or_sell_a_home/ AggieFest next week! http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/aggiefest_next_week/ Wed, 11 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0600 At the heart of Las Cruces lies New Mexico State University, which was created as a land-grant institution in 1888. With over 16,000 students attending its main campus, it really does feel like a main artery feeding into Las Cruces’ life and energy.

Whether your alumni from NMSU or another college, still in high school, or well into your career, you still might be curious what it’s like to be an Aggie these days. If so, check out the AggieFest next week—Aug. 18, 1-3 p.m.—for a carnival atmosphere showcasing all academic departments, students services, organizations, and clubs and campus resources. Most of the excitement will be located along the International Mall (west of Corbett Center), and the outdoor stage (east of Corbett Center).

For more info, call Alina Haro at (575) 646-6050, or email her at aharo@nmsu.edu.

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Evelyn Bruder, CRS, GRI, ABR, E-PRO, Las Cruces Cyberstar

The Evelyn Bruder Dream Team http://www.homesforsaleinlascruces.com

For more information about what we do and how we can provide all of your real estate needs, CLICK HERE

We welcome comments and questions – CLICK HERE

]]> Las Cruces Dream Team http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/aggiefest_next_week/ Do the Ramble! http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/do_the_ramble/ Thu, 05 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0600

Looking for something to kick-start your weekend? Consider the Main Street Downtown Ramble. Its a chance for you to wander in and out of galleries, shops, businesses and restaurants in the renovated historic downtown. There will be art openings at some galleries, live music, entertainment, open mic opportunities, shopping, refreshments and more.

The Ramble is held the first Friday of each month, so if you cant make it this time, theres always September!

Free admission. For more info call 575-523-2950.

]]> Las Cruces Dream Team http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/do_the_ramble/ New Mexicos Tax Free Weekend is August 6-8 http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/new_mexicos_tax_free_weekend_is_august_68/ Mon, 02 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0600

Many states offer tax-free shopping during certain times of the year to motivate people to get out there and shop. For one, it helps out people by saving them some cash, and for two, it helps the stores out by generating a little extra revenue.

New Mexicos tax-free weekend, beginning this Friday (August 6th) and lasting until Sunday (August 8th) at midnight, is intended to help get the kids back to school. But before you venture out and shop till you drop, I have a few ideas that might help you sanely get through this busy weekend:

Make a list:
Make a list in advance of the main items you plan on buying and what stores you plan to shop in to find these items. This will help you avoid going from store to store and running out of time, energy, or moneyits tax-free weekend, but the cost of school supplies can really add-up fast.

Bring Your Ads
Most stores will match competitors advertised prices on the same merchandise. If you have an ad with you they may match the price if it is the identical item.

Check Extended Hours
Many stores and malls will be extending hours to accommodate the rush of shoppers during this busy weekend. If a store opens early or closes later than the others, you may want to shop during the extended hours and avoid the crowds (although there is sort of no way to completely avoid them with all the good deals and no tax).

For a list of tax-free items, clickhere.

]]> Las Cruces Dream Team http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/new_mexicos_tax_free_weekend_is_august_68/ Looking to get a little greener and/or leaner? http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/looking_to_get_a_little_greener_andor_leaner/ Tue, 27 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0600 TheLeague of American Bicyclistsis hosting a commuter class Saturday, September 11, 2010 from 4pm-8pm at Las Cruces City Hall (700 N. Main Street, Conference Room 2007C).

This class is for adult cyclists whove completedTraffic Skills 101andwish to explore commuting to work or school by bicycle. There will be 3-hours of classroom time and a 1-hour on-bike course which will cover route selection, bicycle equipment choices, dealing with cargo & clothing, bike parking, riding at night, and foul weather riding.

What to bring: a brown bag dinner and water bottle, your bike in good working condition, a helmet, bike lights (white front/red rear), reflective wear for night riding, and riding clothing.

To reserve a seat, email edconway@me.com by August 28th. The fee for the class is $20.

Sponsored by the City of Las Cruces, the Las Cruces MPO, the Mesilla Valley Bicycle Coalition, Outdoor Adventures, and the Bicycle Coalition of New Mexico.
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Evelyn Bruder, CRS, GRI, ABR, E-PRO, Las Cruces Cyberstar

The Evelyn Bruder Dream Teamhttp://www.homesforsaleinlascruces.com

For more information about what we do and how we can provide all of your real estate needs,CLICK HERE

We welcome comments and questions CLICK HERE

]]> Las Cruces Dream Team http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/looking_to_get_a_little_greener_andor_leaner/ A few things to do in Las Cruces tomorrow http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/a_few_things_to_do_in_las_cruces_tomorrow/ Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0600 Las Cruces Farmers Market (every Saturday and Wednesday)

It’s been a few weeks since I’ve made it to the farmers market, so it’s definitely going to be on my to-do list for tomorrow. For one, I have a hankering for some fresh green tomatoes, so that I can slice them up and put them on the grill (I usually just put a dash of salt, pepper and olive oil on them before grilling). And then hopefully sometime later in the day I will be able to make it to one of the following shows.

KRWG benefit concert

Steve Smith, Chris Sanders and Hard Road will play a benefit concert for KRWG at 7 p.m. Saturday, July 24, at the Rio Grande Theatre. Advance tickets are $15 for adults and $7.50 for children 12 and under. Tickets at the door are $20 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under. For more information or tickets visit www.krwg.org or call 646-2222.


Lucky Seven: Phoenix Piano Quartet presents free show

Relax and recharge at the free Lucky Seven: Phoenix Piano Quartet concert on Saturday at NMSU’s Atkinson Music Center Recital Hall. Show starts at 3 p.m. The Phoenix Quartet was founded in 2008 by William Leland, who has served for 30 years as resident pianist in the NMSU Music Department. The program will feature Mozart's Quartet No. 1 in G Minor, Gabriel Fauré's Quintet in C Minor and two violin solos by Frizt Kreisler: "Praeludium and Allegro" and "Tambourin Chinois (Chinese Tambourine)

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Evelyn Bruder, CRS, GRI, ABR, E-PRO, Las Cruces Cyberstar The Evelyn Bruder Dream Team http://www.homesforsaleinlascruces.com For more information about what we do and how we can provide all of your real estate needs, CLICK HERE We welcome comments and questions - CLICK HERE

]]> Las Cruces Dream Team http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/a_few_things_to_do_in_las_cruces_tomorrow/ Chile Chocolate Ice Cream http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/chile_chocolate_ice_cream/ Wed, 21 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0600  

I was perusing the Internet a few days ago for new ice cream recipes that I could do with the grandkids, and we came across a very delicious one from a New Mexican native—Jane Butel.  Butel currently lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where she has her very own cooking school.  The recipe of her’s that really caught my eye the other day was her chile chocolate ice cream. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the flavors of spicy and sweet—it’s wonderful! It’s not hot like burn-your-mouth hot, but there is a nice bite mixed in with the creamy sweetness. The grandkids loved it, my husband loved it, and well I couldn’t get enough of it. (I can only imagine how incredible it is when Butel herself makes it…)
Jane Butel's Chile Chocolate Ice Cream
Jane Butel’s Chile Chocolate Ice Cream

“This velvety-rich ice cream benefits from both chile and cinnamon flavoring the chocolate,” says Butel. “The Aztecs felt that you must have cinnamon or chile whenever you consumed chocolate, which to them was a warrior’s drink consumed before battle.” Find caribe chiles at www.janebutelcooking.com

½ cup water
¼ cup crushed caribe chiles
²/³ cup sugar
2 3-inch sticks canela or Mexican cinnamon sticks (available at natural or ethnic groceries)
¾ pound dark sweet chocolate,
broken into pieces
¼ cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
3 cups whipping cream
6 egg yolks

Boil water and crushed chiles together in small saucepan until chile flesh is soft. Strain, rubbing with wooden spoon or rubber spatula to remove as much pulp as possible. Return mixture to saucepan, add ¹/³ cup of sugar and cinnamon sticks.

Bring to boil, stirring constantly.

Boil 1 minute, then remove from heat and let stand 1 minute. Discard cinnamon sticks, add chocolate and butter. Let stand several minutes, until chocolate is melted. Stir mixture until smooth. If necessary, place over low heat until chocolate melts.

Scald cream in large saucepan. In bowl, beat egg yolks with remaining ¹/³ cup sugar until thick and lemon-colored. Beat in a little of the cream, and return mixture to saucepan. Cook, stirring until mixture is hot, then remove from heat. Beat in chocolate mixture and remaining cream. Pour into heatproof bowl. Refrigerate until chilled, stirring occasionally.

Transfer to ice-cream maker and freeze according to manufacturer’s directions.

Makes 1½ quarts

Reprinted with permission from Jane Butel.

 

]]> Las Cruces Dream Team http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/chile_chocolate_ice_cream/ Staying cool the rest of the summer http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/staying_cool_the_rest_of_the_summer/ Tue, 06 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0600 We’ve had a hot summer, but surprisingly not too many triple-digit days this year. Nonetheless, I wanted to share a couple simple tips with you on how to stay hydrated and cool for the next couple months and maybe even save you some money, buy better utilizing what you already have: windows and blinds!

Keeping Your Body Cool sports drink

My advice is to stay inside between 12p.m.-4p.m. if at all possible, but if you do have to be outside though, it is best to wear a lightweight, long sleeved shirt, a hat, sunscreen, and to drink at least 8 ounces of water every half hour you are outside. What I tell my grandkids to do when they are outside all day running around is to drink plenty of water and then every now and then take a swig of a sports drink, so that they don’t sweat out all their needed salt and electrolytes. I realize those sports drinks can be pretty sugary, and I myself can’t drink a whole one, but if I’m going to be outside all day sweating I add water to a sports drink and sip on it, that way I don’t sweat out all my needed minerals. (To make your own healthier sports drink, click here for a couple simple recipes.)

Keeping Your House Cool

    * If you are an early morning person, take advantage of the crisp morning air by opening windows and screen doors to bring in some of the cool air (do this in the evening too once the sun starts to settle past the horizon a bit. But before it gets too late in the morning, make sure you draw the blinds and drapes to prepare for the hot sun.

    * If you have venetian blinds (horizontal blinds), close them or angle them upwards. That way, light is reflected up and into the room and direct rays of the sun are not let in.

    * Set your thermostat to 76 degrees Fahrenheit when you are home and 83 degrees when you are away. I generally leave a ceiling fan on when I am away, so at least there is air circulating—feels cooler than when I don’t leave one on at home and then return after being gone for the day. For the sick, elderly, and those who have trouble maintaining body temperatures (such as diabetics), set your thermostat a little lower (72 to 75 degrees) when you are home. Better to adjust the temperature if you get too chilly than to wait till you are so overheated that you feel ill.

Photo courtesy of http://jcarrot.org/wp-content/uploads/sports_drink0819.jpg

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Evelyn Bruder, CRS, GRI, ABR, E-PRO, Las Cruces Cyberstar

The Evelyn Bruder Dream Team http://www.homesforsaleinlascruces.com For more information about what we do and how we can provide all of your real estate needs, CLICK HERE

We welcome comments and questions – CLICK HERE

 

]]> Las Cruces Dream Team http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/staying_cool_the_rest_of_the_summer/ How is the Market? ... It's great! http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/how_is_the_market_its_great/ Wed, 09 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0600

The number of Single Family Home sales in May (145) is 34% more than April sales and 17% more than May 2009. Year To Date home sales for January to May 2010 are up 8.5% over the same period in 2009.

Las Cruces Single Family Home Sales by Month and by year

If the trend that we are seeing in these first 5-months of 2010 continues, this indicates that we are well on our way back to a balanced / normal Las Cruces Real Estate Market (neither a Buyer's or Seller's Market). 82% of homes sold are under $250,000. Sales are brisk in this portion of the Market as reflected in the May sales, as well as the increase in sales for YTD 2010 vs. 2009. Anyone considering buying a home in this price range should be buying NOW. Interest Rates are low, and your dream home is still available at a great price. Our analysis indicates that buyers and sellers will soon be on equal footing. Quite possibly, if optimistic projections for the 2010 sales and listings are accurate, we could see a Seller's Market in this price range in 2011.
The Market for homes selling for over $250,000 is an extremely strong Buyer's Market. If you currently are looking to move up to a larger home, and own a home in the under $250,000 price range, you will never find a better time to do this.Your current home should sell quickly, and you will be in a strong negotiating position to buy your new home at a great price, and even better, you will benefit from significant appreciation when this portion of the Market fully recovers. The complete Current Market Analysis and Trends Report is available at: http://www.HomesForSaleInLasCruces.com For the latest Las Cruces news and Real Estate Information visit our Blog: http://www.lcrealestateblog.com For All Your Real Estate Needs Contact: Evelyn Bruder, Associate Broker, CRS, GRI, ABR, E-PRO Las Cruces' Only Cyberstar CALL 575-650-7224 or TOLL FREE: 888-532-9069 EMAIL: evelyn@homeslascruces.com ************************** Evelyn Bruder, CRS, GRI, ABR, E-PRO, Las Cruces Cyberstar The Evelyn Bruder Dream Team http://www.homesforsaleinlascruces.com For more information about what we do and how we can provide all of your real estate needs, CLICK HERE We welcome comments and questions - CLICK HERE

]]> Las Cruces Dream Team http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/how_is_the_market_its_great/ Las Cruces' Music in the Park Series http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/las_cruces_music_in_the_park_series/ Tue, 08 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0600 You'll see me just about every Sunday with my sandals off, feet curled up in the cool grass, a cold drink in my hand (or a snow cone if my sugary mood strikes me), swaying back and forth to some good ol' local music. I don't care if it's country, rock, Tejano, or something I've never even heard of, I can't get enough of live music, especially when it's set outside under a few shady trees... The City of Las Cruces began the Music in the Park series a couple weeks agoon Sunday, May 30thwith the Mayors Jazz Fest. Music in the Park is a 14-week musical extravaganza offering Las Crucens an eclectic mix of music performed by local, regional and nationally recognized artist, at Las Cruces' beautiful parksApodaca Park, Klein Park and Young Park. Music types include: jazz, rhythm and blues, Mariachi, classical, country, Tejano, bluegrass (usually my favorite!!), new wave and pop, among others. All concerts listed begin at 7:00pm. The following is the rest (12 shows) of the 2010 schedule: Apodaca Park 801 E. Madrid Ave. June 13 Syd Masters & the Swing Riders - Western Swing Tijeras, NM Bob Einweck Folk - Phoenix, AZ June 20 Windy City - (Tribute to Chicago) Pop - El Paso, TX June 27 Steve Smith & Chris Sanders Bluegrass - Las Cruces, NM Rhythm Mystic - World Music - Pinos Altos, NM Klein Park 155 N, Mesquite St. July 11 Fast Lane - C&W, variety, blues - Las Cruces, NM Redneck Cowgirl - C&W, gospel - Deming, NM July 18 Undiskovered featuring Carol Portillo Variety - Las Cruces, NM Mariachi Feminil Flores Mexicanas Mariachi - El Paso, TX July 25 Remember Then - Doo Wop & Oldies - Las Cruces, NM Gene & the Starliners -Oldies but Goodies - Las Cruces, NM Young Park 1905 E. Nevada Ave. August 1 Azucar - Latin Jazz, Salsa - El Paso, TX Red Hot & Red Jazz - El Paso, TX August 8 NM Symphony Brass Quintet - Chamber Music, pop - Las Cruces Madera Winds - Chamber Music - Las Cruces, NM August 15 Crystal Ship - 60's Rock, British Invasion Rock - Las Cruces, NM Los Changos Del Mar - Surf Music Taos, NM August 22 The James Douglas Show - Funk, R&B - Los Angeles, CA Nosotros - Latin Rock - Las Cruces, NM Entertainers, locations and dates are subject to change without prior notice. The City has provided the Music in the Park Series as a public service, free of charge, since 1994. Residents are reminded that in accordance with a City of Las Cruces policy, pets are not permitted at special events held at City of Las Cruces facilities. Photo courtesy of http://www.facebook.com/pages/Las-Cruces-Music-in-the-Park-Series/114993981877373 ************************** Evelyn Bruder, CRS, GRI, ABR, E-PRO, Las Cruces Cyberstar The Evelyn Bruder Dream Team http://www.homesforsaleinlascruces.com For more information about what we do and how we can provide all of your real estate needs, CLICK HERE We welcome comments and questions - CLICK HERE ]]> Las Cruces Dream Team http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/las_cruces_music_in_the_park_series/ Lending Industry Gets Its 'Due' for Mortgage Mess http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/lending_industry_gets_its_due_for_mortgage_mess/ Sun, 06 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0600 From realestateabc.com Both houses of the U.S. Congress are currently working on financial legislation in order to prevent future market meltdowns. And while not the focus of the bills, new rules and restrictions on the mortgage lending industry are included in each, as many people lay the blame for the current recession at the feet of the housing industries excesses and failures. "It would have been unthinkable to get through financial reform without addressing the mortgage market because this is why were are in the mess we're in," said Julia Gordon, senior policy counsel at the Center for Responsible Lending, as quoted in a Washington Post article. The new legislation makes at least four key changes to the way mortgage lenders currently do business. First, it would do away with prepayment penalties on certain types of loans. These substantial fees have discouraged borrowers from refinancing into cheaper loans, which has contributed to the continued foreclosure avalanche as troubled borrowers have been financially unable to get out of their risky, high-interest loan because of the prohibitive cost of the prepayment penalties. The new potential law would prevent these penalties from being attached to adjustable rate mortgages and subprime loans as well as other mortgages with extremely high interest rates. Neither would loan officers be able to receive greater compensation for issuing prepayment penalties. Second, the bills proposes to severely limit mortgage broker fees and incentives, making it illegal for them to give borrowers higher interest rate loans than they qualify for. Some argue that incentive-based pay was a big part of the mortgage meltdown, as brokers and loan officers let their greed determine what type of loan to give, not what was most financially sound. The mortgage industry defends itself however, saying that higher interest rates are a trade off for consumers when they get to close a loan faster or if they have lower credit scores. For the rest of the story, click here. ************************** Evelyn Bruder, CRS, GRI, ABR, E-PRO, Las Cruces Cyberstar The Evelyn Bruder Dream Team http://www.homesforsaleinlascruces.com For more information about what we do and how we can provide all of your real estate needs, CLICK HERE We welcome comments and questions - CLICK HERE ]]> Las Cruces Dream Team http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/lending_industry_gets_its_due_for_mortgage_mess/ IT'S HERE - 1st Q - 2010 REAL ESTATE MARKET ANALYSIS http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/its_here_1st_q_2010_real_estate_market_analysis/ Mon, 12 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0600 EVELYN BRUDER DREAM TEAM'S CURRENT MARKET ANALYSIS

How is the Market? Each month we report an updated Analysis of the Las Cruces Real Estate Market. We are happy to E-mail you a copy of the complete report as soon as it is available. Subscribe now, and begin receiving your reports.

This is a free service, there is no obligation, and all reports are sent by email.

1ST- Q. 2010 REPORT IS READY SUBSCRIBE NOW RECEIVE YOUR COPY BY RETURN EMAIL

homes sold in las cruces nm, las cruces nm real estate statistics homes sold in las cruces nm, las cruces nm real estate statistics ************************** Evelyn Bruder begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlighting, CRS, GRI, ABR, E-PRO, Las Cruces Cyberstar The Evelyn Bruder Dream Team http://www.homesforsaleinlascruces.com For more information about what we do and how we can provide all of your real estate needs, CLICK HERE We welcome comments and questions - CLICK HERE ]]> Las Cruces Dream Team http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/its_here_1st_q_2010_real_estate_market_analysis/ Valentine's Weekend in LC: Margaritas, Warhol, Jazz, & More http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/valentines_weekend_in_lc_margaritas_warhol_jazz_and_more/ Fri, 12 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0700 [/caption] As promised, the Evelyn Bruder Dream Team has been diligently working hard to find the perfect margarita in Las Cruces. The scoop this week is a specialty margarita at De La Vegas Restaurant, the newest addition to locally owned eateries in our city. A higher-end 'pecan grill' and bar, De La Vegas blends two of southwest New Mexico's biggest exports, parlaying it into an entire menu more or less. Pecans and green chile are a-plenty at this Napa Valley-esque restaurant, used in everything from the butter to the pecan-and-bacon-chocolate dinner mints (no, really). After debating between the three margaritas on the menu - the Silver Buck, the search for the perfect margaritaCucumber, and Don Deigo De La Vega Margarita - we opted to forgo the the more traditional Silver Buck, which was infused with agave like our past experience at Si Senor, and perhaps try something a little different. Since the Don Deigo De La Vega Margarita is made with Patron Gran Platinum tequila, 150 Year Anniversary Grand Marnier, hand pressed limes, agave nectar, comes in a light-up glass, and costs $90 per cocktail, we went with the Cucumber margarita, which turned out to be quite delicious. Crisp, clean, and refreshing, the cucumber does a great job of mellowing out the sometimes sharp taste of a margarita; this drink would be perfect for a warm summer's evening sitting out on the back patio of the restaurant, watching the glorious New Mexico sunset. So, of the three we have reviewed, which is the reigning favorite? This is a tough call, because they have all been so good (and fairly different), but I think the strongest contender is still the Sangria Margarita from Si Senor. Smooth, succulent, and just sweet enough, the Sangria Margarita manages to incorporate to two community and cultural favorites. Next week, we will have another update on our Search for the Perfect Margarita, highlighting two of the three different kinds at The Game - Aggie Sports Bar and Grill. If you're looking to take your significant other out on the town this weekend to celebrate Valentine's Day, you might want to look into taking them to one of the locally owned restaurants we have mentioned in the past. We compiled a small list for our readers with name, location, contact, cuisine ($-$$$), and price range so that you can pick the perfect place to enjoy a special dinner. De La Vegas (575) 521-2656 500 South Telshor Blvd $$ - American/Southwest fusion (burgers, salads, steaks, seafood, pastas, etc) Lorenzo's de Mesilla (575) 525-3170 1750 Calle de Mercado (Mesilla) $$ - Italian with southwestern flare (traditional pizzas, pastas, salads, etc) The Mix & Katana Grill (575) 532-2042 1001 East University Ave $$ - Pacific rim cuisine (sushi, tepannyaki grilling, seafood, etc.) St. Clair Bistro (575) 524-2408 1800 Avenida De Mesilla $$-$$$ - European/Italian (pastas, salads, seafood, etc.) Aqua Reef [caption id="attachment_1522" align="alignright" width="150" caption="The Double Eagle."]The Double Eagle.[/caption] (575) 522-7333 900 South Telshor Blvd $$-$$$ - Euro/Asian (sushi, stir fry, seafood, etc.) Brigid's Cross (575) 647-1455 1338 Picacho Hills Dr $$ - Traditional Irish/English (stews, seafood, soups, salads, etc.) Double Eagle (575) 523-6700 2355 Calle De Guadalupe (Mesilla) $$-$$$ - American/Southwest fusion (steaks, seafood, New Mexican foods, etc.) Sunset Grill (575) 521-1818 1274 Golf Club Rd. $$-$$$ - American (steaks, pastas, salads, etc.) andy warhol las cruces museum of artIf you're wondering what is going to be happening around town this weekend, the Las Cruces Museum of Art is proudly hosting an "Andy Warhol & Pop Art" exhibit, running now until April 3rd. The Museum is located at 491 N. Main Street on the Downtown Mall, and is open from 10-4pm Mon.-Fri. and 9-1 on Saturday. In the Old Mesilla District, the "For the Love of Art" artist showcase and concert will be happening from 11-4 on Saturday in the Mesilla Plaza. Music will be provided by the Border Jazz Trio from 2-3. If you're in Old Mesilla and are in the mood for a hopeful, romantic movie full of great music and cross-cultural references, you might want to hop over to the Fountain Theater, which will be showing the Academy-award winning film 'Once' as their Saturday matinee. Other movies opening this weekend at the Allen Theaters around town include The Wolfman, Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief, Valentine's Day, and the local documentary about a sad day in Las Cruces history, A Nightmare in Las Cruces. The weather is going to be BEAUTIFUL this holiday weekend (a warm and sunny 65), and the town will be booming with things to do, see, eat, experience, and enjoy! We hope to see you out there! As usual, we are taking suggestions for restaurants to review, margaritas to try, and things to see in Las Cruces! Feel free to leave a comment! ************************** Evelyn Bruder: CRS, GRI, ABR, E-PRO, Las Cruces Cyberstar The Evelyn Bruder Dream Team http://www.homesforsaleinlascruces.com For more information about what we do and how we can provide all of your real estate needs, CLICK HERE We welcome comments and questions - CLICK HERE Steinborn GMAC Real Estate (575)522-3698 ]]> Las Cruces Dream Team http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/valentines_weekend_in_lc_margaritas_warhol_jazz_and_more/ The HOW's of Social Media http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/the_hows_of_social_media/ Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0700 Over the last year, I have written and read a lot about social media. This blog, about the possible upcoming trends and new website to explore, could be very helpful to someone who is unhappy with the layout or user interface of a specific website. Earlier there was this blog, musing over why social media is the best way to market yourself and pondering, what did we do BG (Before Google)? There was this blog in which we linked to a video that explained the how-to's behind Twitter, and another Twitter post about how we need to reach the right audiences. And of course, there was another blog that exemplified just how important social media is. I realized I have done a lot of "why's" and not a lot of "how's," and absolutely no "what's." There are a lot of tools out there that any real estate professional - or any business professional - could use in their arsenal in order to be the most effective with all of those websites we have talked about recently. I wanted to highlight a few things, both tangible and intangible, that I think are absolutely essential to utilizing all of that free Internet marketing stuff that will help you save on the one thing that it does cost you: your time. Everyone's time is valuable, and I know few people who want to be sitting at their laptop establishing connections or tweeting while everyone around them is making memories. That's where there are websites like ping.fm and TweetDeck come in handy; they turn you into syndication. Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, LinkedIn, and more all updated in just one place; I can say from experience that it's very convenient. On Facebook, under the Notes application, there is a simple way to set up an automatic import from an outside blog so you minimize your copy/paste time. (On the sidebar nav, look for the Note option. On the right of the Notes page there is a box to set up the import/export function). That is HOW you organize your social sites and save yourself time. videos utilize SEOIn order to utilize SEO, blogs and websites need pictures and videos. Now it's fairly easy to do a Google Image search and pick whichever picture you wanted to put on your own site, but remember that the image you chose was hosted by a website like yours, which you gave traffic to in order to get that picture and every YouTube video you search for is some kind of advertisement; that stuff is free. That's why every business professional should have a digital camera or smart phone that takes good quality pictures to have original content on a blog/website. I admit that it can be hard to get into the routine of taking a picture when the city looks beautiful, or even remembering to take your camera out with you but once you do, it's worth it. Videos are a little bit trickier, because typically they involve more editing and time, but it's easier than ever to be your own videographer; all you need is a basic program like Windows Movie Maker to get you started. With tools like Flip Video Camcorders and most digital cameras, it is affordable and easy to build things like testimonials, motivational videos, informative shorts, and so on. These are examples of WHAT you need and HOW to make SEO work for you. I hope this blog helped to expand on the initial discussions of social media. I think that at this point we all know why it's popular and what it is, but now it's time to figure out what we need and how to make it work for us. ************************** Evelyn Bruder: CRS, GRI, ABR, E-PRO, Las Cruces Cyberstar The Evelyn Bruder Dream Team http://www.homesforsaleinlascruces.com For more information about what we do and how we can provide all of your real estate needs, CLICK HERE We welcome comments and questions - CLICK HERE Steinborn GMAC Real Estate (575)522-3698 ]]> Las Cruces Dream Team http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/the_hows_of_social_media/ Las Cruces's Winter Wonderland http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/las_crucess_winter_wonderland/ Fri, 29 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0700 This morning, I woke up to a lovely 1/4" dusting of snow on the ground, which is always a surprise in Las Cruces. It had gotten unusually cold last night, dipping into the low 30's, which can sometimes be a nice reminder that it is still winter. So many days the temperature stays at a moderate low 60's, with not a cloud in the sky; sometimes I think us Las Crucens forget that it's still winter. Recently, I've heard people complaining about our recent bouts of winter, and sometimes I want to remind them that it could always be worse. We could live here: snowsnow During January, our average temperatures are in the mid to high 50's, and apparently we're not supposed to receive more than 2 inches of a snowfall a year. Well, I can certainly say we surpassed that this year, if not by much; there was one particularly snowy night that dropped at least 2.5 inches on us, which is enough to cancel school here! Naturally, by noon it had all melted away. A lot of people become frustrated with the random bouts of snow we have here, but I like to look at it as a brief reminder of how lucky we are to enjoy 350 days of sunshine a year and four very gentle seasons. It's always a pleasure to see snow sticking to the palm trees and yuccas - as long as it's only a few days a year. ************************** Evelyn Bruder: CRS, GRI, ABR, E-PRO, Las Cruces Cyberstar The Evelyn Bruder Dream Team http://www.homesforsaleinlascruces.com For more information about what we do and how we can provide all of your real estate needs, CLICK HERE We welcome comments and questions - CLICK HERE Steinborn GMAC Real Estate (575)522-3698 ]]> Las Cruces Dream Team http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/las_crucess_winter_wonderland/ Traveling: Finding New Mexico's Treasures Again http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/traveling_finding_new_mexicos_treasures_again/ Sun, 03 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0700 [/caption] My husband and I love to travel. That is our number one hobby; packing up and heading out to uncover a part of the world we have never seen. We love to try to experience the culture of a new place in every which way, which always includes sightseeing and eating. We have been to some incredible places and have seen some extraordinary things in places like Eastern Europe and central South America; we are so lucky and are so thankful that we have the means and opportunities to relish in our passion of traveling. We are such a go-go-go kind of couple; we work hard so that we can do the things we love to do. Of course, getting to a place like Machu Picchu is an ordeal in itself. I think that the journey to the destination is half the fun. But even after all of our wonderful adventures in worldly travels, I am frequently astounded when I uncover local treasures that I seem to have forgotten about. These last few weeks, my husband and I have been fortunate enough to Pecos Winery Roswell NMhead to Ruidoso and Roswell, NM. I had forgotten how wonderful our sister city and Roswell really are. Our first excursion was in Roswell, where we strolled the quaint downtown strip and bought some gifts for friends at the Pecos Winery. We opted not to do walk through the UFO Museum since we've done in the last few years, but all Roswell visitors should really see the story and history behind the famed UFO crash. Ruidoso NMOn the way back towards Las Cruces, we stopped in Ruidoso to do some sightseeing and enjoy the winter weather in one of New Mexico's snowiest and most beautiful resort towns. When we were there, the town was enjoying the result of several inches of fresh powder and a cold, wintry day; the Ski Apache mountains off in the distance were breathtaking. Downtown Ruidoso can easily be an entire day of shopping, eating, and sightseeing on it's own, with nearly 100 little local boutiques and bakeries dotting the tiny two-lane road. We opted to take the slightly longer way home just to drive by the always stunning Inn of the Mountain Gods. Lake Mescalero, with banks stretching up to fifteen feet from the casino doors, was partially frozen over. Against the silhouette of the Ski Apache mountains, the Inn looked simply stunning. I guess that sometimes life gets going so fast that I can forget to take a moment to appreciate the things that are less than 3 hours away. I think everyone probably has a moment like the one I had this last month, where you see the beauty around you again. This year, I am so thankful and appreciative of the great city of Las Cruces, and all of the great towns, cities, and natural wonders that are a hop, skip, and a jump away. I'm positive that nearly all other Las Cruces residents feel the same way. To see our comprehensive collection of things to see and do surrounding Las Cruces (including Ruidoso), CLICK HERE. ************************** Evelyn Bruder: CRS, GRI, ABR, E-PRO, Las Cruces Cyberstar The Evelyn Bruder Dream Team http://www.homesforsaleinlascruces.com For more information about what we do and how we can provide all of your real estate needs, CLICK HERE We welcome comments and questions - CLICK HERE Steinborn GMAC Real Estate (575)522-3698 ]]> Las Cruces Dream Team http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/traveling_finding_new_mexicos_treasures_again/ Another 'In Plain English' Video http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/another_in_plain_english_video/ Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0600 I have to admit, I love these videos; they're to-the-point, easy to understand, short, and helpful. The sad truth about this particular video is that there is a need for it; people fall victim to Internet scams all the time. Even worse, the phishing perpetrators are the most difficult to catch, since most often they perform their scams at public Internet Service Providers, which makes them difficult to trace. A woman in our office recently spent hours and hours on the phone with her bank, credit card companies, social security offices, and more dealing with the repercussions of her daughter responding to a phishing scam. Most people already have a sort of safety net set up within their emails with junk filters and such, but we have to reiterate this to our children and friends so that they can protect themselves from the dishonest, dirty e-thiefs. Take just a few minutes to watch this helpful video on phishing and how to protect yourself from it; maybe even forward it to your friends and colleagues, because no one likes to deal with this stuff. ************************** Evelyn Bruder: CRS, GRI, ABR, E-PRO, Las Cruces Cyberstar The Evelyn Bruder Dream Team http://www.homesforsaleinlascruces.com For more information about what we do and how we can provide all of your real estate needs, CLICK HERE We welcome comments and questions - CLICK HERE Steinborn GMAC Real Estate (575)522-3698 ]]> Las Cruces Dream Team http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/another_in_plain_english_video/ A Look At Buyer's Agents http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/a_look_at_buyers_agents/ Sun, 18 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0600 Buying and selling is a confusing process; that much is true for everyone, even second time buyers/sellers. It's up to me to make the process as easy for you as possible, but there's one area that seems to be more perplexing than others: buyer's agents. Who pays them, and how much do they get paid? Do you have to sign a buyer broker agreement? Are they even necessary? The last few years, the real estate scene has witnessed a surge of buyer's agents; agents that are strictly on the side of the buyer, ensuring they get a fair price and negotiation hassles are kept to a minimum. However, a couple of weeks ago a friend of mine forwarded me an MSN article called '10 Things Your Real Estate Broker Won't Tell You,' and while the writer made some fair points regarding the ethics of some agents, number 5 struck me as particularly thought-provoking. The headline read: "Sometimes I forget who's side I'm on." The sad truth is that may be the case for some buyer's agents, but in defining the position of the buyer's agent, they should be on your side, the buyer's side. On the other hand, in terms of payment and commission, it's normally the selling agent that pays the buyer (yeah, you read that right). Normally, a listing agreement between the selling agent and the seller specifies how much the listing brokerage will pay the selling brokerage for bringing a buyer. It does seem a little backward for the selling agent to pay the buyer's agent to act on your behalf, and I think that's where some buying agents forget who they're working for. Since most buyer's agents don't work for free (who does?!) and so many people are confused to how a buyer's agent works, some agents request for their clients to sign a buyer broker agreement. There are three different types, but the most common is exclusive; it basically states that no matter what, you (the buyer) cannot buy a property without owing a commission to the agent. At first glance, that statement might seem harsh to clients, but it's a way for buyer's agents to protect themselves against people who want to take advantage of their services. I know a lot of buyer's agents won't work with people who hesitate to sign a buyer broker agreement, since it essentially means that the client doesn't care if the broker gets paid. If you, as a client, feel uncomfortable signing something like that until you fully understand it, most brokers won't mind if you ask to look at it over a weekend, so long as you approach it respectfully and seriously. You must also remember that this agreement does not stipulate that you have to buy a home, it only states that if you buy a home, you will work with the buyer's agent. It can also stipulate that the seller is responsible for the commission and that you the buyer are not responsible. With all of this in mind, what are the benefits of a buyer's agent? Well, if you're working with someone you trust and live a busy lifestyle, buyer's agents cut out a lot of stress on your behalf. I know that it feels good to have someone working on your side with you as a priority; sellers receive that treatment, so why shouldn't a buyer? But how do you know you can trust your agent? That's where the internet comes in handy - look them up on ActiveRain, LinkedIn, Facebook, Yelp, and spend some time reading testimonials and websites. These websites are incredible resources for all clients; they can tell you a lot about your potential agent. I hope this blog helped clear up some confusion regarding buyer's agents and what they do. You know that if you have any questions, feel free to call us or visit our website by CLICKING HERE. To see the MSN article I referenced, CLICK HERE. ************************** Evelyn Bruder: CRS, GRI, ABR, E-PRO, Las Cruces Cyberstar The Evelyn Bruder Dream Team http://www.homesforsaleinlascruces.com For more information about what we do and how we can provide all of your real estate needs, CLICK HERE We welcome comments and questions - CLICK HERE Steinborn GMAC Real Estate (575)522-3698 ]]> Las Cruces Dream Team http://www.guidetolascruces.com/blog/a_look_at_buyers_agents/