AboutValerie S Expertise I can answer questions regarding travel around NM, including hotels, restaurants, sights and information about the New Mexico Pueblos. I live in the Albuquerque area and of course know a lot more about this city and environs, but can also answer questions about Santa Fe, Taos, national parks and culture.
Experience I have lived in NM for 19 years and have a deep love for our multi-ethnic culture. I have volunteered for the Albuquerque Convention and Vistor's Bureau. I have been involved in the travel industry for 7 years.
Education/Credentials BA History for University of New Mexico
Expert: Valerie S Date: 2/10/2002 Subject: Moving to New Mexico
Question My wife and I are planning on "semi-retiring" (she will retire,I will work) in Ruidoso N.M. in about 2 years. Do you know of any good places to find info on relocating to N.M. ? We have owned a cabin and have been visiting there for the past 12 years. I am a home builder by trade, but would like to slow down a bit and smell the roses and travel your wonderful state while we still can. I am contemplating either opening up a home inspection service or a maintenance/repair service. About 3/4's of the existing houses in Ruidoso are owned by part-timers like me. Who would you reccomend I contact regarding license requirements for these services?
Your input will be greatly appreciated. Thanks,
Ron Richter
Answer Buenos dias, Ron!
First allow me to congratulate you on your choice of New Mexico as your retirement destination. Ruidoso is a certainly a beautiful locale. There is really something amazing about our vast blue skies and mountain vistas.
Southeastern New Mexico, unfortunately, does not have as many resources widely available for information on relocation. (This is fortunate for those already there who wish to keep it a secret, but unfortunate for those trying to get in!) I would recommend starting with a call to the Ruidoso Chamber of Commerce at 800-253-2255. As well as providing relocation basics, they will also be able to recommend a couple of good realtors in the area, some of whom should also have their own relocation packets and information. Getting acquainted with a few realtors would also be good for your future business, as they could prove to be a good source of referrals.
For information on licensing requirements, a phone call to the State Regulation and Licensing Department at 505-827-7030 should answer all of your questions. For more indepth information on starting your business though, I recommend a visit to www.edd.state.nm.us/ECONOMIC/ This is the NM Economic and Development Department's Business Development Services Division website where there you can find a wealth of helpful information, including a New Business Start-Up Guide. Our state takes pride on the number of successful small businesses, and this department will be willing to provide much help to you in your start up. Besides the information provided on the website, there are phone numbers where you can obtain "live help".
I would think, also, that once you've settled into your home here, involvement in a community program such as Habitat for Humanity would provide you with contacts in the construction and inspections arena, as well as with locals who may be willing to introduce you and/or help you navigate the waters as you begin your business.
I hope you find this answer helpful. Best of luck to you and your wife!
Vaya con Dios,
Valerie