The post Santa Fe Properties becomes Corcoran Plaza Properties first appeared on Brendan Bush | New Mexico Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker.
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“Santa Fe is a premium example of refined living, where centuries-old heritage meets contemporary luxury,” said Liebman. “Establishing Corcoran Plaza Properties in this market is a strategic milestone for our brand. The city’s allure, its architectural elegance, cultural diversity, and breathtaking natural surroundings have long attracted discerning buyers seeking more than just a home. Rob Thorwald and his team embody the depth of local expertise and elevated service that defines Corcoran, making them the perfect stewards of our brand in this exceptional market.”
Founded in 1986 by Edward W. “Wally” Sargent, Santa Fe Properties has long been a top-performing and highly respected brokerage in the region. Now operating as Corcoran Plaza Properties, the firm has grown to include more than 65 experienced agents, as well as dedicated and skilled support staff. In 2024, the company represented the sellers in the highest-priced home sale of the year, further cementing its reputation and skillset in the market’s luxury segment.
“Santa Fe is a wonderful place with a unique blend of cultures, arts, and the outdoors,” said Thorwald. “It’s a combination that has always drawn people here, and we’re looking forward to continuing to provide top-tier real estate services to our clients, now in affiliation with the excellence and prestige that the Corcoran® brand embodies.”
Thorwald, who discovered the draw of Santa Fe in 1982 and moved to the area over a decade ago, holds a professional background in management consulting and business strategy. His leadership of Corcoran Plaza Properties marks a new chapter for the company, focused on operational efficiency, strategic agent growth, and driving market share in a truly competitive luxury landscape. Corcoran Plaza Properties will continue to serve clients interested in buying, selling, and investing throughout Santa Fe’s key neighborhoods including Downtown/Eastside, Las Campanas, Monte Sereno, Eldorado, and the Foothills, with a focus on high-end residential properties, farms, ranches, and select commercial listings. The firm will continue to be based and operate out of their existing offices located in downtown Santa Fe.
Santa Fe’s real estate market is characterized by high-value transactions, with the average sale price for homes within the most desirable areas easily surpassing the million-dollar mark. The city’s buyer demographic is predominantly domestic yet evolving, with an uptick in international interest. As a luxury resort destination, there is strong demand from second-home buyers and investors, particularly from markets such as Texas, California, Colorado, Washington D.C., and the Tri-State area.
“Santa Fe’s unique blend of culture and natural beauty makes it one of the most compelling luxury markets in the country,” said Stephanie Anton, President of Corcoran Affiliates. “Rob’s leadership and the office’s deep local roots align perfectly with the Corcoran brand’s values. We’re excited to help them elevate their business and support them in bringing our brand to life in New Mexico.”
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]]>The post Relocation Guide first appeared on Brendan Bush | New Mexico Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker.
]]>Chances are good that you’ll be changing more than your address. Besides a new home, you may also be searching for new jobs, schools, doctors, restaurants, stores, and more. You’ll need to pack and make moving arrangements—and possibly sell your old home.
With so much to do, you may be wondering: Where do I start?
This guide can serve as your roadmap, providing essential information and insights to ease your transition and save you time, money, and hassle along the way. Inside you’ll find tips to help you choose a community, find your new home, sell your current home, plan your departure, prepare for your arrival, and get settled.
To avoid getting overwhelmed, focus on one step at a time. And don’t hesitate to ask for support! We’re here as a resource to help make your relocation as pleasant and painless as possible.
Choosing a Community
When planning a relocation, one of the first things you’ll need to decide is where you want to live. This could be as broad as an area of town, or you might narrow it down to a specific neighborhood.
You’ll want to consider a variety of factors, such as:
- Proximity to Work – Map out the commute to your workplace and the availability of public transportation, if you plan to use it.
- Amenities – Make a list of essential amenities you’d like nearby such as grocery stores, gyms, restaurants, and parks.
- Neighborhood Vibe – Visit the area to gauge its atmosphere and characteristics, such as walkability, retail offerings, and population density.
- Cost of Living – Evaluate property prices, rent, utility costs, and overall affordability of different neighborhoods to match your financial situation and needs.
- Schools – If you have children or plan to in the future, consider the public schools they would be zoned to attend or the proximity to your preferred private schools.
- Safety – Look up local crime statistics and evaluate safety measures, like street lighting and speed bumps.
Neighborhood Profiles
Researching the ins and outs of various neighborhoods can be time-consuming and sometimes difficult. Whether you’re completely new to the area or a local considering a move within Santa Fe, I’ve got you covered! Each community offers unique amenities and characteristics, making them top choices for residents and newcomers alike. For a local’s inside look into the top communities in Santa Fe, check out the Community Profile Page.
Find Your New Home
If you choose me to represent you, you can rest easy knowing that I will be there for you throughout the entire journey, working hard to make the experience as easy and enjoyable as possible.
While every real estate transaction is different, here are the basic steps you can expect to undertake when you buy a home:
Selling Your Current Home
If you already own a home, you’ll also need to start the process of either selling it or renting it out. But selling your home when you still need to shop for a new one can feel daunting to even the most seasoned homeowner.
Here are some of the most frequent concerns I hear from clients who are trying to buy and sell at the same time, plus some expert tips for handling them:
“WHAT WILL I DO IF I SELL MY HOUSE BEFORE I CAN BUY A NEW ONE?”
Open your mind to short-term housing options.
Check out furnished apartments, vacation rentals, and month-to-month leases. You may even find that a short-term rental arrangement can offer you an opportunity to get to know your new neighborhood better.
“WHAT IF I GET STUCK WITH TWO MORTGAGES AT THE SAME TIME?”
Ask me about contingencies that can be included in your contracts.
For example, it’s possible to add a contingency to your purchase offer that lets you cancel the contract if you haven’t sold your previous home. We can discuss the pros and cons of these types of tactics and what’s realistic given the current market dynamics.
“WHAT IF I MESS UP MY TIMING OR BURN OUT FROM ALL THE STRESS?”
Enlist help early.
It’s my job to guide you and advocate on your behalf. So don’t be afraid to lean on me throughout the process. I’m here to ease your burden and make your move as seamless and stress-free as possible.
I can help you evaluate your options based on current market conditions. I’ll also give you an idea of how much equity you have in your current home so you know how much you can afford to spend on your new one.
Planning Your Departure
Preparing for a move can be both exhilarating and exhausting. Fortunately, you don’t have to do everything in a day. You don’t have to do it all alone, either. When you work with me, I’ll be there every step of the way to help you navigate this process with ease.
To that end, here are some tips to help you plan for your departure.
- Prepare Your Children
Moving can be especially difficult for our youngest family members. If you have children, communicate the move in an age-appropriate way. If possible, take them on a tour of your new home and neighborhood. This can alleviate some of the mystery and apprehension around the move.
- Decide What to Take
Use this opportunity to declutter your belongings by sorting items into categories: keep, donate, sell, or discard. This will not only streamline your packing process but also help you start fresh in your new home with only the items you truly need and love.
- Start Packing
To maintain order and make unpacking easier, pack one room at a time. Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. This will save you time and effort when unpacking in your new home.
- Plan to Move Your Belongings
If you will be using a moving company, start researching and pricing your options. Make sure you’re working with a reputable company, and try to avoid paying a large deposit before your belongings are delivered.
- Transfer Schools
Let your child’s current school or daycare know you’ll be moving and ask for any necessary forms. Arrange to have all records transferred to their new district.
- Turn Off Utilities
Once you know your moving date, you can arrange to have your utilities turned off or, if possible, transferred into the new homeowner’s name.
- Arrange for Transportation
If you plan to drive to your new home, map out the route, and, if necessary, make arrangements for overnight accommodations along the way. If driving is not a good option, you may need to have your vehicles transported and make travel arrangements for you, your family, and your pets.
- Schedule Final Get-Togethers
If you will be leaving friends or family behind, schedule final get-togethers before your departure. The last days before moving can be incredibly hectic, so make sure you block off some time in advance for proper goodbyes.
- Prep Your Home for New Owners
If you’re selling your home, don’t forget that you’ll need to leave it clean and ready for the new owners. After your belongings have been removed, you’ll need to set aside time to clean it yourself or have it professionally done. Also, be sure to leave behind any keys, garage door openers, warranty documents, etc. I can help you determine what should (and shouldn’t) be left for the new owners.
Prepare for your arrival
While it’s tempting to get wrapped up in the departure details, don’t forget to plan ahead for your arrival at your new home. To make your transition go smoothly, you should start preparing well before moving day.
Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Label Your Essentials
You’ll need a few items (think toothbrush, towels, bedsheets) to make it through the first night in your new home. Designate some boxes with “Open Me First!” labels. (Pro tip: Keep a tool kit front and center for all that reassembling.)
- Turn On Utilities
Arrange in advance for your utilities to be turned on, especially essentials like water, electricity, and gas. You may also want to schedule Internet and cable service in advance.
- Update Your Address
Notify any relevant parties—banks, credit cards, subscriptions, etc.—about your change of address so you don’t miss any important bills, notices, or deliveries. You’ll also want to notify the post office and submit a mail forwarding request.
- Enroll in School
If you have children, ask about the process to register them for school. If possible, schedule a tour so they can see their campus and meet their new teachers in advance.
- Prep Your New Home
You may want to have the house professionally cleaned before moving in. And if you plan to remodel, paint, or install new flooring, it’s easier to have it done before you bring in all of your belongings.
- Consider Transportation
If you own a car, check the requirements for a driver’s license and vehicle registration in your new area and contact your insurance company to update your policy. If you will utilize public transportation, research options and schedules.
- Research Your New “Go To” Spots
Create a list of all the restaurants you want to try and places you want to visit around your newly purchased home. Having a to-explore list keeps everyone’s spirits high and gives you starting points to settle into the neighborhood.
Get Settled
Studies show that moving can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression.* However, there are ways to combat these negative effects.
Here are a few strategies to help you and your family get settled in the new space:
- Prioritize Your Kids
If you have children, unpack their rooms first. Seeing familiar items will help ease their transition and establish a “safe zone” where they can hang out away from the chaos. If possible, let them have a say in how their room is set up.
- Make a Plan for Pets
Pets can also get overwhelmed by a new, unfamiliar space. Let them adjust to a single room first, which should include their favorite toys, treats, food and water bowl, and a litter box for cats. Once they seem comfortable, you can gradually introduce them to other rooms in the home.
- Get Organized
As you unpack, make a list of items that need to be purchased so you’re not making multiple trips to the store. Also, start a list of needed repairs and installations. If you have a home warranty, find out what’s covered and the process for filing a service order.
- Explore Your New Neighborhood
Try to schedule breaks to get out of your house and investigate your new area. And if you travel by foot or bicycle, you’ll gain the mood-boosting advantages of fresh air and exercise.
- Get Plugged In
Combat feelings of isolation by making an effort to meet people in your new community. Find a local interest group, take a class, join a place of worship, or volunteer for a cause. Don’t wait for friends to come knocking on your door. Instead, go out and find them.
*Pyschology Today, Why You’re Miserable After a Move
Next Steps
I specialize in assisting home buyers and sellers with a seamless and “less-stress” relocation. Along with a referral network of moving companies, contractors, cleaning services, interior designers, and other home service providers, I can help take the hassle and headache out of your upcoming move.
So if you are considering moving to Santa Fe, I invite you to reach out to me using the contact information below. I would love the opportunity to learn more about your specific situation and start your relocation journey.
brendan@sfprops.com
505-501-8017
The post Relocation Guide first appeared on Brendan Bush | New Mexico Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker.
]]>The post Comprehensive Real Estate Seller’s Guide first appeared on Brendan Bush | New Mexico Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker.
]]>Are you considering selling your home? Or maybe you’re just curious about its value?
This guide is intended to help you get ready and understand the selling process so you can make the best choices for yourself and your family.
In my experience, many homeowners think that all REALTORs® do the same thing. If you’ve talked to more than one REALTOR®, then you probably have a similar perception.
I’d like to change that. As a broker, I’ll leverage my background in technology and skills in communication and negotiation to create a seamless, client-focused experience. My product management roots mean I’m always looking for solutions that are tailored to each individual, ensuring that every client feels heard and supported. I view selling a home as more than a transaction—it’s a journey, and I’m dedicated to making that journey as rewarding and stress-free as possible.
In this post, I’ll outline the skills, strategies and actions that enable me to achieve results for you. Read on, or for a personal conversation about your specific situation, contact me for a free consultation.
Hire a professional who knows how to list, market, and sell your home.
Use market knowledge and prices of competing homes to set the list price.
Get the home ready for staging, photography, and showing.
Start marketing the home through a property marketing plan, in collaboration with your REALTOR®.
Buyers will tour the home, ask questions, and determine if your home is the right fit for them.
Evaluate offers on your home, and through your REALTOR®, negotiate to close a deal that works best for you.
Pricing Your Home
You may have heard that there is not much housing inventory right now, which means that prices are higher on average. This is great news for you as a home seller! The timing is perfect for you to get a strong return on your investment in your home.
But even in today’s market, there are still homes that sit, waiting for an offer, for months and months. This time spent on the Multiple Listings Service (MLS) means that you are still making payments on your mortgage, you are still not getting equity out of your home, and in many cases, you aren’t able to move forward with the purchase of your next home.
Perhaps even worse is what buyers and buyer agents think about homes that have been on the market for too long. The first impression a buyer gets about a property that has been listed for a long time is “Something must be wrong with that home.”
That thought will scare away many buyers, and it will prompt the ones who remain interested to try to lowball you when they submit an offer on your home.
But why are those homes still on the market in the first place? It’s because they are often priced “out of the market.” Take a look at this graph to see what I mean:
The intersection of the two axes – price and preparation – represents homes “in the market.” These are the properties that are priced competitively and prepared nicely, and these are the homes that will net the most money for their sellers.
As you move further away from the intersection, the homes become too pricey and in too much disrepair. These homes show poorly and are basically guaranteed not to sell at a price that will make you happy.
The homes hovering near the middle of the graph, represented by the question marks, are in a sort of limbo. They are priced just a bit over their market worth, or they are not adequately prepared to show. These properties are the ones that will stay on the market for months and months, ultimately selling for under the initial asking price and causing their sellers a lot of time and frustration.
If this sounds complicated, don’t worry! I have a specific strategy that will help you avoid the dreaded limbo of home sales and keep your home “in the market.”
Free Home Value Report
Preparation is Key
Just as first impressions are important for people, they can also be make-or-break for a home. When potential buyers walk into your house, they will start to evaluate everything they see. Their impression will ultimately determine how much they are willing to offer on a property… or even if they’ll be interested in buying it at all.
Therefore, in order to get you the most money possible for your home, we at [Company] put a ton of care into its preparation before we put it on the market. Quality preparation that will leave buyers with the best impression of your house involves three elements:
1. REPAIRS
There are several reasons to complete repairs on your home before you put it on the market. Ultimately, buyers will pay more for a home to avoid the work of fixing it, and they will pay faster.
Moreover, any money you invest into repairs before you list — when you have time to price-shop and to use a little bit of elbow grease — will be far less than the quote from the home inspector or the concessions for which buyers will ask.
The good news is that most repairs are merely cosmetic and fairly inexpensive. Think of the things on your to-do list: that leaky faucet and the cracked bathroom tile were bothering you when you lived in the house, and they’re going to bother the new owners too.
2. CLEANLINESS
You wouldn’t want your mother to come over when your house was dirty, would you? And you’re not even trying to get her to shell out thousands of dollars for the place!
Buyers are easily distracted, and they will tend to focus on the negatives instead of the positives of each home they tour. Each dish left in the sink or dust bunny in the corner is going to detract from the perceived value of your home, which means a lower offer amount and more time on the market for you.
3. STAGING
According to a recent study by the National Association of REALTORs®, 96% of buyer agents reported that staging had some effect on their clients’ view of homes. They said that staging made it easier for their clients to visualize the properties as a future home and that they were more likely to overlook property faults.
And these effects turned into cash for sellers like you. The survey reveals that 52% of buyer clients were willing to offer more on a staged home than a similar home that was not staged — as much as 20% more than asking price!
The post Comprehensive Real Estate Seller’s Guide first appeared on Brendan Bush | New Mexico Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker.
]]>The post How to select the right real estate broker to represent you first appeared on Brendan Bush | New Mexico Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker.
]]>Another important factor is the broker’s ability to navigate the complexities of real estate transactions. Real estate involves more than just showing houses or listing properties—it requires a keen understanding of market trends, legal requirements, and negotiation strategies. Look for a broker who can provide insights into the local market, identify opportunities, and confidently manage challenges. Their ability to explain complex terms or processes in simple language can make the journey less stressful and more empowering for you.
Communication is critical in choosing the right broker. This extends beyond returning calls or emails promptly—it’s about keeping you informed every step of the way. Whether discussing offers, changes in the market, or next steps, your broker should make you feel like a priority. Strong communicators are adept at working with other parties in the transaction, ensuring a seamless experience for all involved. This skill can be especially important during negotiations, where clear and strategic communication often leads to favorable results.
Lastly, assess their problem-solving skills. A broker’s ability to think on their feet and provide creative solutions to challenges—whether it’s resolving inspection issues or finding ways to make your offer stand out—demonstrates their expertise and dedication. A broker who views challenges as opportunities to excel will likely be a partner you can trust to deliver exceptional results.
Ready to take the next step? Contact me today to see if I’m the right fit for your real estate needs.
The post How to select the right real estate broker to represent you first appeared on Brendan Bush | New Mexico Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker.
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