Semi Retirement and Brokers (Albuquerque, Las Vegas: houses, neighbourhoods, college)

[Complex]

My father is looking to leave Austin, Texas, in the New Year. He ran a fairly successful company but his health has taken a turn and he's looking to move. He's a brit and moved to the US 15 years ago after 30 years traveling the world in the music business. Now in his early sixties he's looking to retire to a small place somewhere in Albuquerque or in a friendly town nearby with some reasonable amenities. I don't think he's keen on purpose built communities and would prefer something more traditional/downtown.

Looking for a simple 1 or 2 bed with a 1 car garage and perhaps a small workshop to do a bit of classic car restoration. Isn't looking for anything fancy, more utlitarian but robust in build/style. Wants to be close to some stores, hospital. He'll be Living alone. Something on the fringes of downtown might be perfect but too costly.

He's hoping to not spend more than about $150,000, and is happy to do a bit of work on a property, though it should be liveable on moving in.

Where should he head to? Any ideas on neighbourhoods. He's not really into newbuilds, gated communities, snobs etc.

Any advice on brokers?

We're starting from scratch here so all guidance much appreciated in advance.

[Zoidberg]

May want to consider Las Vegas NM or Raton NM, both cities that are affordable and have historic downtowns.

Both get wicked cold in the winter sometimes.

Downtown Los Lunas or Belen might also work.

[GregW]

Complex-

He should check out Socorro. The college has a concert series and Realator.com lists a bunch of houses under 120k.