BREAKING BAD STILL GOOD

Bryan Cranston got another award for his work on "Breaking Bad". It's such an interesting story line --- good teacher fighting his own demons. He won the International Press Academy Satellite Award for best actor in a drama series. We look forward to the show coming back to start production for season three.

Now would be a great time for those on that production team to buy a house here in ABQ. Call me. Rates are great and clearly you all are going to be around for awhile. We hope.

WERNER, LERNER - OFCOURSE IT'S ANN LERNER

In my enthusiasm writing the blog yesterday, I gave our beloved Ann the wrong last name. Wouldn't you know it, a kind soul from the ABQ Film office let me know of my error. Good thing she has a sense of humor and a good heart. She knows I know who she is, for Heaven's sake. Sorry, Ann.

ANN WERNER IS AMAZING

Well, Ann entertained a group of executive women the other night with stories of films being made here in ABQ and shared her plan to make us #2 in the country for filmmaking. And why not? With the support of Mayor Chavez, she has used her talent to bring films here and to keep all of us here in ABQ excited about our new fame as a film site. The revenue coming in is amazing and the opportunity for employment locally is growing by leaps and bounds. Lots of film people are buying homes here they are so sure this will be a happening place.

I have one word for all of you: Call me and I'll get you lined up with great financing and find you a perfect house. Oh and my second word is we are just plain lucky to have Ann!!!!

BUYER'S MARKET IN ABQ

For buyers, especially first-time homebuyers, the market couldn't be better. Rates are incredible and sellers are eager to sell. We see buyers waiting to see if "we have hit" bottom but we have pretty much stabilized here in ABQ. We didn't depreciate like other cities although our sale prices went down around 4-6% depending on the area of the city and price range. Homes in the range of $200,000 are particularly good deals now.

So for those of you here doing films, give me a call. Let's get you in a home. You can't go wrong. This isn't California!!

MY MAN DENZEL IS IN TOWN AT LAST

The new film, "The Book of Eli" began production at the ABQ Studios last week. We are all hoping there is not a Screen Actors strike and that production can continue.

The television show "Breaking Bad" is still filming and I have made myself available to find locations. They want mid-America looking houses so no flat roofs. Not easy in our town but they have found some in the UNM area.

We love those movies except of course when they block off the streets as they did downtown Friday when I was trying to get to an appointment. Nah, we love 'em anyway.

GEORGIA O'KEEFFE FILM IN NEW MEXICO

Lifetime Television is filming a movie about our beloved artist starring Joan Allen and Jeremy Irons. Shooting begins Nov. 17th. Can't wait to see that one.

For those on the film, there are some great rentals given all the empty houses on the market. Call me.

JACKIE CHAN IS A DEMOCRAT!

Jackie Chan was spotted at a recent Obama rally stirring up support. He is scouting locations for his film "The Spy Next Door" set to shoot next month. He apparently fell in love with the photo ops in Santa Fe and became a regular tourist photographer capturing the great doorways and ristras out this time of year. The movie is the story of an undecover spy who is babysitting his neighbor's children who accidently download a secret code and it goes from there. He has been recording songs so we haven't seen him in a movie recently. He's a huge pop music star in China and Hong Kong.

Charlie, call me if you need to find some good home sites here in ABQ!!

DENZEL COMING TO NEW MEXICO

The new Denzel Washington film "The Book of Eli" will shoot in New Mexico in January, maybe. It is still being worked out so we will see. My daughter went to school with Denzel's kids and Denzel was just a regular dad who showed up at the fundraising events in a BarBQ apron and helped fry hamburgers on the grill. He and his wife interact in a mutually respectful way and handle adoring females with cordial conviviality. He is softspoken, has soft sparkling eyes and is just charming. Their children were well behaved and friendly; not uppity like some at this private school in Beverly Hills. I think he would love it here, and who knows, maybe I can sell them a house and get them to establish a second home here. So bring it on Alcon Studios; we are ready.

"NIGHT AND DAY" FILMING IN NEW MEXICO

"Night and Day" will be shot in Albuquerque in October-November. This is a Mue Entertainment Enterprise/TNT pilot starring William Fichtner from Crash and Dark Knight. Its a drama about an agent with the Bureau of alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. Should be a fun one!

'BREAKING BAD" IN MY BACKYARD!

For those of us living High Desert area of Albuquerque or users of the Emory Trailhead, know that there will be filming next week in the Trailhead area.

"Breaking Bad" Emmy for Cranston Good for NM

Congratulations to Bryan Cranston who won an Emmy Award for Best Actor in a Drama last week for his performances in "Breaking Bad". We know him as the nicest guy in TV and nothing has changed. He doesn't gloat but will reportedly pull out his Emmy for all to view. And why not?!? I do that with my new car and that just shows how much I am in denial about the economy; his pride is well earned. He was nominated three times for playing the dad in "Malcolm in the Middle". The award is good for New Mexico because it mean the show is likely to stay on the air longer. Shooting can be seen all over Albuquerque. They were up in my High Desert neighborhood not long ago. We love the excitement and hope for more of the same. Way to go, Bryan!

GEORGE CLOONEY COMES TO NEW MEXICO!

Yeah, Baby!! George is coming in November with none other than Ewan McGregor starring in the big screen adaptation of "Men Who Stare at Goats." The film will shoot in northern New Mexico starting in November. Jeff Bridges and Kevin Spacey will also be in the film. Written by Jon Ronson, the film is about the US Army's attempts at psychological warefare techniques like using brain waves to kill goats and Fleetwood Mac records to torture suspects. The book is funny so hopefully this is a comedy. Hats off to New Mexico!

Breaking Bad Filming

Breaking Bad film crews seem to show up all over the city. Everyone here likes the series and there is a rush still when one drives by all the trucks associated with a shoot. The novelty hasn't worn off for us here so bring on some more films Hollywood......

STEVEN SEAGAL NEW MEXICO

Our own Gov. Richardson announced that Steven Seagal will be filming "The Keeper" in Santa Fe Sept through October. Steven plays a bodyguard whose client is kidnapped and he has to rescue the woman. Wasn't there one like that where it was the President's daughter or was it his ex-wife played by our own Shirley MacLaine that was kidnapped too? nd then there was one that takes place in Mexico City. Oh well, guess there are no new stories.

I remember meeting Steven once at one of our neighborhood burger places in Hollywood, called the Hamburger Hamlet. They have the best fat old juicy burgers and I liked mine smothered with grilled onions, dijon and plum jam! Yumm!! Anyway, he was at a table next to ours and he was so short!! I was shocked as he plays such big guys in the movies.

So anyway, look for a muscular short guy in Santa Fe this fall.

And if you are looking for a house to buy or sell, call me. 505-220-9193,

DON'T MESS WITH OUR TOMMY LEE

Well, Tommy Lee Jones starred in that great movie "No Country for Old Men" and now claims the studio owes him $10 million. The film was made here in New Mexico and I am sorry I didn't see him when he was here. Apparently he was promised box office business which was $160 million. Not insignificant. Hope he gets it as he was terrific and of course the film one best film.

If you are here now filming and are interested in real estate or leasing, give me a call. Judy Pierson 220-9193, Coldwell Banker Legacy

The Burning Plain Film at Venice Film Festival

The film opens with a shot of a trailer on fire in the New Mexico desert with the landscape appearing barren and exposed. The story starring Chalize Theron, whom I think is the most beautiful actress, is about her running a restaurant in Oregon but being confronted by a mysterious visitor from Mexico. The film is directed by Guillermo Arriago and was initially titled "The Four Elements" ---- water, earth, wind and fire. I guess Portland is the water and we are the rest. Seems like New Mexico has become typecast as either a foreign planet, Mexico or early fifties. Oh well, at least we are getting film productions here. We are so much more however.

"Swing Vote" Out in Theatres

Well, our own Kevin Costner who hung around ABQ for several months filming, can now be seen in "Swing Vote". Look for scenes filmed here locally! Annette Johnson is one of the adorable little girls in the film. Annette's father flies back and forth with my husband each week to work in LA. A proud father, indeed.

POOR CHRISTIAN BALE

Ever since it was announced that he would be here to film the new Terminator movie, we have felt like he was "ours". New Mexico is like that. And now our hearts break with this bad news about the alleged abuse to his relatives when he should be enjoying his tremendous success. There are definitely two sides to the story and only one has been heard. This is a healing place, Christian, come on "home."

In the meantime, a way over built home used as the film location for several movies last summer has foreclosed. An investor realtor owned it. It was spectacular but way overbuilt. The whole outrageous upper level was just the master suite and then there were two tiny bedrooms on the ground level. I mean who could live in that!!! Shame, shame, Realor, you should have known better.

"Breaking Bad" to Film in ABQ

Sony/AMC/Topanga Productions is bring a second season of filming of "Breaking Bad" to ABQ. The pilot was picked up so the crew will be here filmng over various locations for the next six months. Welcome Back! I expect to get calls for homes to lease, especially with pools. Bring it on! I can find them.

The Governor has tried to attrack more television productions so that the crews are here for longer periods of time which creates more local economic benefits. "Easy Money" will be the sixth major TV production following "Crash", W"Wildfire", "Breaking Bad", "Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles," and "In Plain Sight".

STUDIO IN RIO RANCHO?

City councilors have approved a resolution to negotiate with a group who wants to establish a digital media center downtown. The City of Vision Studios needs to provid proof of financial backing by Dec. 2008. If approved, it could bring hundreds of high paying jobs to RR. What with HP coming next year and maybe this studio, RR just could turn around in a couple of years. Let's hope because the real estate market there now is totally stalled.

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY

Well, the production crews in town are back to their homes in Hollywood for the long holiday weekend. It is expected that by the 7th they should know if the Actor's Strike is on or not. The "not knowing" has been difficult both in terms of production and for those looking to rent homes for the summer for their families while they are here filming. We shall see.

JAKE GYLLENHAAL'S HOT

Well, this has nothing to do with ABQ but my daughter went to grammer school with Jake. Since she has been little she knew she was going to marry him; he just hasn't realized it yet. He, and his sister, were nice kids and not affected by early stardom. Jake, if you read this, call me. Corwyn is waiting.

In the meantime, if anyone is looking for a rental or home to buy let me know.

CRASH SERIES SET FOR NM

The State's Investment Council has approved a $15 million loan to the producers of a new television series based on the award winning 2005 film "Crash". The film was disturbing in it's exposure of the underlying racial and economic bigotry and hatred that pervades life in Los Angeles, and probably other big cities. Coming from LA, I found it to be all too true and so sad. Actually, when asked why I left LA and why I rarely visit my standard reply is "Have you seen "Crash"? That's why. I didn't want to end up like Sandra Bullock's character where my best friend was my housekeeper."

100 FILMS MADE IN NEW MEXICO!

Amazing, but a dramatic thriller that began production in Santa Fe is the 100th film to be shot in New Mexico since Gov. Richardson started this program. We are all loving it here and you must admit that the backdrop of our beautiful mountains and the quaintness of our towns is terrific in the films that have been done here. Of course, now with our sound studios filming is also moving indoors but who can resist our beautiful outdoor settings? The film is "Run For Your Life" about Paul Stanton.

FILM NEWS IN NM

Lots happening here. Probably the biggest news is the approval of the $40 million Santa Fe Studio project to be build south of The City Different. The area had been slotted for a studio for a long time and now groundbreaking will occur this year with opening of many sound stages by the end of 2009. The county hopes to increase gross receipts and other revenue from the associated activities. In return for the land and county financed infrastructure improvements, the studios promise to build four green sound stages near NM 14 which is off interstate I-25 and is the road that leads to Madrid which is already a popular area for filming. Remember Wild Hogs??

Project Angel or as we like to say the next Terminator movie crew finished up filming at the Gorge bridge up near Taos and the crew is back in town. The next Transformers film is set to be filmed near Alamogordo. And the 9th Gate may come here too. Lots happening.

In the meantime, I am available for anyone that is looking for a rental or investment property. I have a couple of homes that house up to six people and would be great to lease out to film crews. CAll me at 505-220-9193.

TERMINATOR FILMS AT LA LUZ TRAIL TODAY

The Terminator, oops, I mean Project Angel, is filming days now and today they are at the La Luz Trailhead. The wind is blowing like crazy so I hope they stay save. No word on a possible actors' strike so plans are for the crew to stay through September. I have been in contact with three about finding a home to lease with a pool. I do have one for $1800 a month and another for $4500 per month which is more for the star or top mucky-mucks.

INDIAN JONES IN NEW MEXICO

We all kinda view the new Indie movie as ours since so much of it was filmed here. The scenes in downtown especially the cafe reminded me that we are definitely retro. Nothing had to be changed to film a 1950's hangout. I always say we are a third world state and I mean that affectionately. My husband and I saw the film this weekend and observed that 90% of the audience were in our age group ...... aging, grey haired (well, I'm not, but the others were) baby-boomers. So what were we doing there? We had all seen all of the series and were perhaps longing for that thrill of suspense we experienced when we were twenty years younger watching the films??? I don't know why we were all there. I mean I enjoyed it; it was formulaic except for the wedding. All in all we had some good laughs and were proud of New Mexico!

RENTAL HOUSE WITH POOL AVAILABLE

I have a house off I-40 and Tramway that can be leased that has a pool. Give me a call.

"GAS HOLE" in NM

Oh, I just got the title! "Gas Hole" as in a__hole. Get it? anyway apparently this aspiring Michael Moore producer showed this film in ABQ yesterday at the Guild Cinema. It's neither conservative or liberal but factual. Okay, well I'll go see it on DVD in the Fall. Did anyone see it?

CONGRATULATIONS TO ANN LERNER

Ann Lerner, city of ABQ Film Liason, won the Arts Alliance Award, the association's highest award, for her work over the past five hears on helping the state's film industry get a foothold in our enchanted city.

I spoke to the wife of the director for the next Terminator film yesterday who said that our high winds and blowing sand weren't received well by the crew trying to film. Hope no one got hurt!!

FILM OFFICE LOOKING FOR LOCATIONS

Hang a sign on your property that says “We welcome film productions!” says Todd Christiansen, the location scout for the ABQ film liaison office. Todd, who is from LA, told me, he spends a lot of time just driving around looking for unusual properties. Ann Lerner, who heads up the office, states that she is particularly interested in large warehouse buildings with high ceilings. Bummer. I just sold one in the UNM area for an auto shop. What was I thinking?? Actually, I know how hard it is to find properties in all the little pocket communities here in Albuquerque, so if you are looking for a location, call me. By now, I know this city inside and out.

“BEER FOR MY HORSES”???

This is the name of a film shot in Madrid with a whole slew of country and rock music stars. The film was written by Toby Keith and Rodney Carrington for their buddies. I wonder if they all have Harleys sitting out in front of the saloon.

REAL ESTATE TRENDS IN ALBUQUERQUE

The Greater Albuquerque area once again defied the rest of the United States. The total homes sold, attached and detached, for April were 1,668 up from 1,616 in March. Days on market decreased to 66 days in April from a high of 71 in January. As reported in the USA Today, April 29, 2008, "Few areas of the country have been spared from the housing market meltdown, but some cities have managed to avoid the worst of the surge in home foreclosures. Consider Albuquerque."Demand for luxury homes has slowed but activity in the range of $249,000 and lower remains strong. That being said Rio Rancho showed the strongest price gains in the Albuquerque MSA with a 7.13% increase in average sales price from April 2007.The same USA Today article reported from Kiplinger.com saying, "The area’s outlook remains bright. It continues to generate jobs and attract retirees. The city offers "resort-town ambience, a boomtown economy and cow-town prices." Kiplinger has named Albuquerque one of the top 10 smart places to live in 2006."The Albuquerque area real estate market is strong and stable compared to other parts of the country," says Cathy Olson, Chair of the Board of the Greater Albuquerque Association of REALTORS® "Housing remains affordable in Albuquerque as we continue to attract new employers ranging from film to high tech to government contracting."

Extreme Makeover

The Extreme Makeover filmed in freezing January aired tonight and it was a tear jerker. The Rodriquez family is truly amazing in what they have done over 6 years in our "war zone" area. The crime rate is down 50% and the area is buzzing with hope. The show tonight captured the big hearts that differentiates New Mexico from the family themselves to the thousand or so volunteers that built the homes. Someone said that every city has a word that describes it. For Albuquerque the word is "heart". People here with and without alot of money give generously of their time, concern and money. I love it here! I left Hollywood ten years ago and have never regreted it. I'll let Hollywood come here to me as I am not leaving! Call me if you want to move here! You will love it too.

FILM MAKERS SEEK HOMES WITH POOLS

The weather would seems ideal, but few homes in Albuquerque have pools, and renting homes with pools is quite desireable for filmmakers here on location. There are nice apartments that can be rented on a month to month basis with outdoor pools, but few homes. I think the main reason we do not see many pools here is the heat. It's hard for pools to survive without cracking issues when you have our freezing winters and hot summers. We found after moving here from LA that you can't lay out in the sun here; it's too intensely hot. Swimming in that heat will fry your skin in a nanosecond. The altitude creates a much more intense heat even though our summers do not get as hot as AZ or Nevada. So here in our Mile High City we head to the half dozen or so wonderful gyms with beautiful indoor pools.

“LEGEND” TO FILM IN NM IN APRIL

You hated him as Silas the albino in “The Da Vinci Code” but this time Paul Brittany is the archangel Michael in the film “Legend.” The movie is about the last days when God loses faith in humanity and decides to end things. Michael tries to save the earth. Most of it will be filmed in Santa Fe, but I am really hoping to run into his wife, Jennifer Connelly, of “A Beautiful Mind”, at Buffalo Exchange or Chez Nous!

JACK BLACK BRINGS IT TO NEW MEXICO!

The "Year One" staring Jack Black will be filmed in New Mexico. The ABQ Journal describes the role as a "neolithic road tripper" and I am not sure what that is. Maybe I am dating myself, but I do like Jack Black. The film is described as a road trip through ancient times which is a genre we haven't seen for awhile. More details are not available except that it will be filming in ABQ for three weeks. Wonder where he will hang out.

Well, give me a call if you are with the film and need anything of a real estate nature.
Judy

CRYSTAL DARKNESS FILMED IN NEW MEXICO

Not that we want to be associated with the whole meth addiction problem, but a documentary on the ravages of meth will air April 10th in ABQ. It features interviews with NM health and law officials and it's aim is to warn young people about the addictiveness of meth. I work with kids who are custody of the courts and so many are in foster homes because their parents, usually young, are addicts. The cost to all of us is incredible. I hope this film resonates with young people.

As a realtor, we have to be on the look out for homes that have been used as meth labs. These homes have to be almost gutted to get the chemicals out of the rugs, floors and walls. Usually we see it in rental homes. It's a nightmare. That's why I would rather get a good movie related tenant in my client's homes. Give me a call if you want to buy or lease a home or are looking for a location site.

Judy Pierson
NM's Hollywood Realtor

MIKE TODD DIED IN NM 50 YEARS AGO

The headline of the Journal on March 22,1958 was “Air Crash Near Grants Kills Mike Todd.” He and Elizabeth Taylor married less than a year earlier and I remember being so sad for her. Todd was purported to be the love of her life… how sad for her. Mike Todd was known for his award winning “Around the World in 80 Days”. Todd was flying from Burbank, CA to New York City in a leased aircraft. Elizabeth stayed home with a cold and begged him not to go. The plane crashed over Zuni after the pilot moderate icing and was reportedly heavily overloaded. The plane slammed into a pasture. Three days earlier he had flown into ABQ for a premiere of the film at the Hiland Theatre. There is no marker at the site which is so respectful. That kind of respect instead of capitalizing on a tragedy which is what happens in Hollywood is one of the things I just love about New Mexico!

NM Filmakers Conference

The New Mexico Filmakers Conference and First Vision Forum will be held at the Hyatt Regency March 27-29, 2008. There will be workshops and networking opportunties for New Mexico talent. On Thursday night there will be a screening of films by New Mexicans to include winners of Govenrnor's Cup competitions. For more information on the entire conference go to http://www.nmfilm.com/.

Remember if you want to buy or lease property in New Mexico, give me a call.

Terminator & Indiana Jones Coming to NM

The latest Indiana Jones film is in Southern New Mexico near Roswell. Harrison Ford is said to look terrific. Nice to see a man age well!



"Love Ranch" has finished filming. Many New Mexicans were able to be extras when they filled the Tingley Auditorium for a seventies event. No shortage of old hippie and 70's outfits here!!



And the house just behind mine in High Desert that Kevin Costner just left reportedly now has Christain Bale here to make the latest installment of the "Terminator" film. He plays John Connor. This film will be called "Terminator Salvation: the Future" and will be the first of a trilogy. The filming begins in May and goes through August here in ABQ and up in Santa Fe. Production will be at our new ABQ Studios at Mesa Del Sol. The film is expected to employ more people than any other previously made in the state, according to Lisa Strout, the director of the NM Film Office. Warner Bros will release it in May, 2009. In the press release, the director, Joseph McGinty said NM has an arid look perfect for the American Gothic look or a post-nuclear dead world. What? Our enchanted state?? We beat out Budapest, Hungary!



The "Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles" pilot was shot here in ABQ too.



But, the real point is that my 'hood seems to be the place to be if you are here on location for the film. In addition to the house Christain will move into which was purportedly purchased by the studio, there are three other houses, beautiful houses, in the same area that are up for lease for housing of film bigwigs. Give me a call and I will arrange showings.

HOUSING RECOVERY LATE 2009

Forecast Positive for Second Half of 2008Thursday, March 06, 2008 National Realty News

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The volume of existing-home sales is expected to hold steady through late spring, with a gradual recovery during the second half of the year as the mortgage situation improves in high-cost areas, according to the latest forecast by the National Association of Realtors®. Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said many buyers have been waiting for higher mortgage loan limits. “The higher loan limits for both FHA and conventional loans will increase consumer choice and provide greater access to lower interest rate mortgages in high-cost regions,” he said. “Therefore, a notable rise in home sales can be anticipated in the second half of the year." Realtors locally report that calls off of signs and activity has picked up in since the start of March.
In ABQ, the number of sales is off by 35% from last year this month, but the average sales price has increase about 1% a month so far this year. A pattern of disparate price performance continues around the country with a roughly even split between up and down markets. Many areas that have lost jobs are showing price declines which might be why ABQ looks good. We are gaining jobs.
“New-home sales nationally should decline 23.7 percent to 590,000 this year before rising 7.2 percent to 633,000 in 2009. Locally, KB Homes has announced that they are leaving ABQ. For years they successfully built for starter-homes at the low end, but their last move to higher priced homes here has proven to be a poor strategic move.
The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage, which has moved erratically in recent weeks, is expected to hover around 5.8 percent most of the year, and then rise to an average of 6.3 percent in 2009. Growth in the U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) should be 1.5 percent this year and 2.4 percent in 2009. The unemployment rate is projected to average 5.4 percent in 2008 and 5.5 percent next year. Inflation, as measured by the Consumer Price Index, will probably be 3.2 percent this year and 1.5 percent in 2009. Inflation-adjusted disposable personal income is expected to grow 1.4 percent in 2008 and 3.1 percent next year.

If you are looking for homes to rent, buy or for location shots, give me a call at 505-220-9193.

Judy Pierson, CB Legacy
New Mexico's Hollywood Realtor

HOMES TO BUY OR FOR LOCATION

There are just great deals here in ABQ to buy second homes with sellers eager to make a deal, any deal. Some are willing to rent or generate revenue by having them be used as a location set. There are some million dollar beauties in the High Desert area and just about any age, type or model of home. I just listed a terrific townhome owned by an artist which would be a great second home here in ABQ. Check out Eastridge on my website www.JudyPierson.com. Call me.

This Week's Real Estate Update

Here is a link to my weekly "REAL ESTATE NEWS CHANNEL":Click Here This week's segments are full of interesting and useful information that I think you will enjoy whether you are a buyer, seller, homeowner, or renter.Some of the topics covered this week are:Real Estate Outlook - Every week, it seems, there's a battle of conflicting numbers when it comes to housing. The latest existing home sales survey from the National Association of Realtors is a perfect example.Mortgage Moment - Jan Demas discusses "Stated Income Loans"Market Condition - Local market expert Realtor Craig Martin, reports Greenville, South Carolina, is one of the few cities bucking the national trends.Ask the Expert - "Can anyone steer me to a report that will tell me the U.S Real Estate Appreciation Rates by state for the last 15 to 20 years?" Video of the Week - This week's amazing video.You can also tour my latest listing as well as view some of my personal favorites.I hope you enjoy this week's show. If you have any comments, please e-mail them to me.If you do not wish to receive this each week, please reply to this e-mail with the word 'REMOVE' in the subject line.Sincerely,Judy Pierson

REAL ESTATE NEWSLETTER

Here is a link to my "March Real Estate Update":http://realtytimes.com/112/JudyPiersonThis Newsletter is full of interesting and useful information that I think you will enjoy whether you are a buyer, seller, homeowner, or renter.This month's issue includes topics such as: "When Selling Your Home, Using Scents Makes Sense!";"Condos Pay Off As Second Homes";"Timing Is Everything: When And How To Move"; "How To Stop ID Theft Cold";"Use Home Equity Protection"; Plus a roundup of February real estate activity as well as much more advice and information.I hope you enjoy this monthly newsletter. If you have any comments, please e-mail them to me. Or, if you would like to see a certain topic covered in future months, let me know that too! If you do not wish to receive this Newsletter each month, please reply to this e-mail with the word 'REMOVE' in the subject line.Sincerely,Judy Pierson

NM IS A WINNER AT OSCARS!

Who by now doesn't know that No Country for Old Men won the Oscar as best picture and several other awards to boot. What may not be known is that it was filmed here in New Mexico in one of our proud historic towns called Las Vegas. Las Vegas was on the original Santa Fe trail and like Pasadena, CA had rich families from the mid-west settle there at the turn of the century. There are wonderful grand old homes that are being updated and attracting buyers from out-of-state who want to retire in NM but live in elegance. Charming town! I just sold a fast food drive-in to a Taco Bell franchise so even the food is getting upgraded!!

OSCAR NIGHT

Are we excited or what??? I just made brownies for our guests to celebrate with ice cream and wine. The New Mexico entrants are outstanding. We saw Garden of Elah last night and what a heart wrenching film that is. With our Air Force base here, we have alot of young men and women coming back from Iraq and the sacrifices they have made in their lives and their futures is mindbogging. I am so respectful of all of them.

But then, I digress. The Oscars tonight. I'll be there, or here, or whatever.

'Jumper" Author From ABQ

The author of 'Jumper' which was one of the top grossing movies of Valentine's weekend lives right here in ABQ. There was a letter to the editor of the ABQ Journal reminding everyone of that fact. Steven Gould is an award winning sci-fi author and resident. Basking in the light of it's new fame as a movie city, ABQ certainly doesn't want to miss an opportunity for a claim to fame.

GOV RICHARDSON WOOING HOLLYWOOD FILM TO NEW MEXICO

New Mexico is serious about bringing film and tv productions to our State. This week the Governor, that would be Bill Richardson, was in Hollywood talking to several studios including Lionsgate, Touchstone, HBO Films, Sony, Warner Bros, NBC, Universal, CBS/Paramount, and Fox TV Studios. Reading about the trip made me abit nostalgic since I lived in Burbank for years and drove by the big studios almost daily. What I enjoyed the most were the huge, and I mean huge, posters that announced the new films. You knew you were in Hollywood!!

OLD RAIL YARD TO BE FILM COMPLEX

One of the most intriquing historic areas of ABQ is the old railroad yard in the Barleas District just east of downtown. Over the last few years many ideas have been proposed for it's restoration and use, but today the announcement was made that ABQ Studios rent the area from the city indefinitely to develop it as a film complex. ABQ Studios now has it's new sound stages at the Mesa Del Sol area south of the airport. Nick Smerigan, COO of the Studios, is effusive in his excitement about the possibilities at this 27-acre sute. "It's one of the coolest things I saw when I got off the plane. It's beautiful and can be used for so much." His studio recently filmed major movies including "Game", "The Spirit" and the pilot for the new "Terminator" series.

Real Estate Newsletter Feb. 18, 2008

Want to see what Bush is doing to resolve the real estate crisis? Check out this link: http://realtytimes.com/vnc/JudyPierson

Two Top Sundance Films from New Mexico

Both "Sunshine Cleaning" and "Hamlet 2" were accepted for the 2008 SUndance Festival in Park City, Utah. Alan Arkin, who is a part-time New Mexico resident, stars in the former.

www.cabq.gov is where to find the Abuquerque, New Mexico Film Office website which has information about Why Film in ABQ? plus airport and charter service locations. What isn't on there is the Hollywood Realtor in New Mexico site which is www.JudyPierson.com. Check it out. Coming from Hollywood and "connected", Judy Pierson is one of the top realtors in the city and can assist in finding locations and homes to rent or buy.

New Mexico Movie Wins SAG Award

"No Country for Old Men", up for an Oscar for Best Picture, picked up top honors for overall cas along with a supporting actor prize for Javier Bardem.

www.cabq.gov is where to find the Abuquerque, New Mexico Film Office website which has information about Why Film in ABQ? plus airport and charter service locations. What isn't on there is the Hollywood Realtor in New Mexico site which is www.JudyPierson.com. Check it out. Coming from Hollywood and "connected", Judy Pierson is one of the top realtors in the city and can assist in finding locations and homes to rent or buy.

Oscar Attention Goes to New Mexico

Two movies made in New Mexico are up for Best Picture. One is "There will Be Blood" with Daniel Day-Lewis about the silver minor who discovers oil. The other, of course, is "No Country For Old Men" with Tommy Lee Jones, who has made several films here. The film was written by our own New Mexican, Cormac McCarthy. both Lewis and Jones have been nominated for best Actor awards too. The Western movie "3:10 to Yuma" is one of my favorites and was nominated for Achievement for Sound Mixing and Music Written for Motion Picture. Talk about top billing for our State?!

www.cabq.gov is where to find the Abuquerque, New Mexico Film Office website which has information about Why Film in ABQ? plus airport and charter service locations. What isn't on there is the Hollywood Realtor in New Mexico site which is www.JudyPierson.com. Check it out. Coming from Hollywood and "connected", Judy Pierson is one of the top realtors in the city and can assist in finding locations and homes to rent or buy.

Sony Film and Imageworks Studios in Mesa del Sol

Mesa del Sol is the biggest planned development area to be even contemplated in Albuquerque and it's well underway. It is currently home to the 27 acre live action movie facility called Albuquerque Studios. Coming soon will be the Sony and Sony Pictures Imagworks digital production studio. UNM will be building a site for film studies to tie in the production of local talent for the local productions. Watch out Hollywood, here we come!

www.cabq.gov is where to find the Abuquerque, New Mexico Film Office website which has information about Why Film in ABQ? plus airport and charter service locations. What isn't on there is the Hollywood Realtor in New Mexico site which is www.JudyPierson.com. Check it out. Coming from Hollywood and "connected", Judy Pierson is one of the top realtors in the city and can assist in finding locations and homes to rent or buy.

"Wildfire' Canceled for New Mexico

We here in New Mexico loved Wildfire so we were quite saddened that it was cancelled. Lionsgate studiowho distributed the series to ABC Family network announced the sad news. Ann Lerner, the director of the city of ABQ's film office put out the message that we like TV productions, so bring 'em on. We're ready.

www.cabq.gov is where to find the Abuquerque, New Mexico Film Office website which has information about Why Film in ABQ? plus airport and charter service locations. What isn't on there is the Hollywood Realtor in New Mexico site which is www.JudyPierson.com. Check it out. Coming from Hollywood and "connected", Judy Pierson is one of the top realtors in the city and can assist in finding locations and homes to rent or buy.

Albuquerque Official City Film Office & Realtor Sites

www.cabq.gov is where to find the Abuquerque, New Mexico Film Office website which has information about Why Film in ABQ? plus airport and charter service locations. What isn't on there is the Hollywood Realtor in New Mexico site which is www.JudyPierson.com. Check it out. Coming from Hollywood and "connected", Judy Pierson is one of the top realtors in the city and can assist in finding locations and homes to rent or buy.

Josh Harnett into New Mexico

We all have our fingers crossed! Josh may be here to film "End Zone". The final decision hasn't been made but ATO Pictures may come here in 2009 to shot.

With any luck, he will love it here and want to stay. If so, I have just the realtor for him!

Real Estate Newsletter Feb. 12, 2008 from Judy Pierson

Here is a link to my weekly "REAL ESTATE NEWS CHANNEL":Click Here This week's segments are full of interesting and useful information that I think you will enjoy whether you are a buyer, seller, homeowner, or renter.Some of the topics covered this week are:Real Estate Outlook - If you stand back and only look at the negative economic and housing news this week, you might feel a bit numb and a little discouraged.Mortgage Moment - Jan Demas asks the question "Did you ever wonder how Mortgage Pros get the best Interest Rates?"Market Condition - Realtor Zach Frederick in Austin, Texas reports that the local market has remained relatively free of the chaos that is troubling the rest of the nation.Ask the Expert - "On the good faith estimate some of the items payable in connection with the loan are categorized as "PFC" and "POC." What do these letters mean?" Video of the Week - This week's amazing video.You can also tour my latest listing as well as view some of my personal favorites.I hope you enjoy this week's show. If you have any comments, please e-mail them to me at jpierson@cblegacynm.com.

ABQ HOME SALES BUCK THE USA TRENDS

RATES DROP AND BUYERS FLOCK

The 30-year mortgages have dropped steadily as efforts are made to stop the national housing crisis. The Feds are talking about increasing the cap for jumbo loans which will free up buyers for those homes over $600,000 that sit for a long time in our market now. Fixed 30-year rates are below 6% for the first time in months and 15 year rates are hovering just over 5%. Listing prices continue to come down as sellers become more realistic in what the market sees as the worth of their home. The high assumed appreciation dreams have become realistic gains. We have and will continue to see actual home sales go up so no one is really losing value here unless the house has not been maintained. Whereas buyers used to see price reduction as a red flag indicating something was wrong with the home, now they see it as a positive indication that the seller is getting more realistic. What a great time to buy--- lots of inventory, low rates and realistic sellers! What else could one ask for?

It’s actually a good time to sell to because buyers are out there looking with access to good loans and the inventory has not ramped up as it does in Spring. The number of homes that went under contract in January here was significantly increased over the last several months. As other parts of the country begin to show sales, we expect even more out-of-state buyers to come here.

The new home market in ABQ has yet to sort out. Nationally the sales of new homes plunged by a record amount in 2007 and builders have huge backlogs of unsold homes. We are not much different here. Builders have pulled back and I would like to see them target the first time homeowners again. We’ll see.

Click Here

http://realtytimes.com/vnc/JudyPierson for more information or www.JudyPierson.com

ALBUQUERQUE HOMEOWNER TIPS

HOME HEALTH AND SAFETY QUICKCHECK FROM HOUSEMASTERS

Most of us schedule an annual personal physical with our family doctor. When you consider the amount of time your family spends at home, it makes total sense to give your home an annual physical as well. HouseMaster has prepared a list of some basic healthy house issues to assist you in performing your home’s physical. Set aside some time to review the following:
Humidifiers/Dehumidifiers. Humidifiers add moisture to house air and are typically needed when a warm air heating system is operational. Dehumidifiers remove moisture from the air and are typically used in basements or crawlspace areas.
Both of these moisture control devices should be checked regularly during usage periods.
Check to make sure there is no leakage or overflowing of water onto the heating system and all drain lines properly dispose of the water.
Some dehumidifiers have to be manually emptied. If this is inconvenient, replace with a unit with an automatic shut-off or drain.
They should be thoroughly cleaned before or after seasonal use, and as needed otherwise. Remove any slime buildup with a water/bleach solution or use the cleaning agents recommended by the manufacturer.
Alarms/Detectors. Check all safety and security alarms regularly; replace older alarms (after five years or as otherwise recommended by the manufacturer):
Smoke/Fire Alarms. These are your family’s first line of defense/warning in the event of a fire/smoke emergency. Change the batteries in all of your smoke/fire alarms at least annually. Set a regular date when all are changed each year.
CO Monitors. Carbon Monoxide is odorless and colorless. A CO detector is the only way to identify elevated levels of CO in your home before physical injury occurs. If you don’t have CO monitors protecting your home from this toxic gas, you should act immediately and install them in strategic locations near the sleeping areas and other points recommended by the manufacturer or local officials. Check that presently installed units are operational.
Radon Testing. Check with your local municipal building department and inquire if radon gas is a community health threat. If it is, you should test your home for the presence of this invisible, odorless gas.
Security Systems. All too often homeowners disengage their security alarm to avoid nuisance calls. This puts them at a security risk. If this is the case in your home, check with an alarm company to see if other options are better suited for your family.
EMERGENCY PREPARATION. Prepare these essential items for routine activities or emergencies:
First Aid Kit
Family Contact List
House Equipment Maintenance Information
Babysitter Information
Emergency Evacuation Kit
Medial and Financial Records
Remember, these tips are only general guidelines. Since each situation is different, contact me at www.JudyPierson.com for questions or additonal resources for your home. Just Call Judy for all your real estate needs.

House OK's Temporary Increase in Loan Limits

TOP NATIONAL NEWS. House OK's Temporary Increase in Loan Limits Inman News (01/30/08) As part of the $146 billion economic stimulus package passed by the House, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac's conforming loan limit and the maximum mortgage amount under the Federal Housing Administration's guarantee program would be lifted to as much as $729,750 in high-cost markets through year's end. Mortgages greater than 125 percent of an area's median home price would not eligible, however, meaning that markets with a median home price of $333,600 or less would not see an increase in loan limits. Additionally, HUD will have 30 days from the bill's passage to calculate median home prices. Though Sen. Richard Shelby, R-Ala., has voiced opposition to boosting the conforming loan limit before legislation to revamp oversight of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac is passed, higher limits are supported by Senate Democrats as part of their economic stimulus bill. http://www.inman.com/printer.aspx?ID=65942 Here in New Mexico, we have no idea when and if we will have a loan increase. I will keep you informed as soon as I have more information. Thank you!
Jason PikeHome Loan Manager2440 Louisiana Blvd. NE, Suite 160Albuquerque, NM 87110505-828-9400 direct800-264-2114 toll free505-872-2947 fax

New Mexico Ranks In Fastest Growing State

This just in: NM ranks 13th-fastest-growing state in the nation up 1.4% in 2007. With a total state population of more than 1.9 million, the state added 27,000 residents last year. More are coming, but waiting to sell homes out-of-state. Almost everyday, ABQ shows up on top of some USA ranking list. The ABQ metro area tops the list of "Hottest Buyers Market". Median price has increase 9% in 2007 as other markets decline. CNN Money also says metro ABQ is the best real estate market in the West and the third best in the nation! Albuquerque is on the radar screen for individuals and companies. We are being “discovered” and not just because of our governor, Bill Richardson.