How many homes does Questa need to meet local demand, and what can residents afford to buy or rent? Those questions are at the center of a four-part Housing Speaker Series examining housing conditions and potential solutions in the community.
The Taos Housing Partnership, in collaboration with the LOR Foundation and the Questa Economic Development Fund, is presenting the series to provide residents with data, research and case studies that could help identify housing strategies for Questa.
The first presentation, “Why Community Housing Data Matters,” was held Sept. 17. THP housing consultant Daniel Werwath presented statistical information comparing housing and financial trends in Questa and Taos County from 2019 through 2024.
The presentation highlighted several differences between Questa and the county as a whole. The number of renters in Questa tripled during the five-year period, indicating a shift toward smaller, non-owner households. The community also experienced a decline in its young population, a trend that could have long-term implications for the area.
At the same time, the number of vacant homes declined by approximately half between 2019 and 2024.
As part of the ongoing QEDF Housing Project, a “windshield survey” will be conducted over the next month to help verify information about vacant properties. Local residents familiar with their neighborhoods will accompany a driver through the community to identify and record homes that appear vacant and could potentially be renovated for long- or short-term housing.
Housing costs have also continued to rise in the Questa area, with fewer homes available for less than $300,000. The median home sales price increased by $100,000 between 2023 and 2026, from $200,000 to $300,000, according to information presented during the Sept. 17 session.
The next Housing Speaker Series presentation, “Housing Project Feasibility,” is scheduled for Oct. 15 at 5:30 p.m. at the Questa Public Library. The presentation will examine housing case studies and explore how data and community participation can contribute to developing a vision for housing in Questa.
The November presentation will focus on renters. “Looking at a Community Justice Model,” led by the New Mexico Eviction Prevention & Diversion nonprofit, will address housing stability for renters facing eviction or difficulty consistently paying rent.
The final presentation, “Questa Community Housing Data Findings,” is scheduled for January. The date and time will be announced once details are finalized.
The Sept. 17 presentation, “Why Community Housing Data Matters,” is available online. PowerPoint slides from the presentation can be requested by emailing lynn@questaedf.com.
Questa Housing Speaker Series
Thursday, Oct. 15 at 5:30 p.m.
“Housing Project Feasibility”
Questa Public Library,
6 1/2 Municipal Park Rd
Info: (575) 586-2149