Bringing Hollywood to New Mexico
: August 28th, 2009 
: Evelyn Bruder 
: 
Over the course of the last five years, the government of New Mexico has been working hard to draw attention to the growing film and television opportunities in our state. Incredible tax breaks and incentives, new sound stages, and a sprawling landscape that encompasses almost every side of nature are just a few of the many things that draws big companies like Lionsgate, Paramount, and Fox. So just what will this mean for the residents of our state?
People who are from places like California and New York won’t understand how strange it is for people in our region to see a professional filming crew and a famous actor. For the most part, New Mexicans lead laid-back, casual lifestyles and have never really had to think of a road closure for a movie scene. I saw Charlize Theron in a restaurant here in Las Cruces and it just seemed odd. However, the people of Albuquerque are adjusting well to the constant presence of production crews thanks to the Albuquerque Studios. Aside from the occasional road block and restaurant closer, I think the rising popularity of the ABQ Studios means only great things.
The state of New Mexico offers a “painless” 25% tax rebate on all direct production expenditures, including NM labor; this is a 25% REBATE on the total expenditure, not just the tax. This can amount to be a huge chunk of money! With California’s taxation on movie production so high, it’s cheaper for the studios to head east and also take advantage of the film investment loan program. Even though the basic amount of tax dollars coming from projects that can be so big seems so low, studios average bringing in anywhere from 100-1,000 people to work on a project. The cost of living, dining, shopping, and exploring the area boost the local and state economies tremendously. New Mexico residents are always hired on as well, helping our otherwise struggling workforce.
As of May of this year, the Reelz Channel, dubbed cable “TV about movies,” officially become a NM-based employer as their relocation from Los Angeles was complete. Initially, Reelz Channel opted to hire about 100 NM workers, and plans to hire more as expansion continues. More jobs and more real estate being purchase amounts to only great things in my eyes. (Pictured left is Governor Bill Richardson and Leonard Maltin as well as Reelz Channel representatives at the ribbon cutting ceremony.)
Not only does all of this create job opportunities, economic boosts, and greater recognition for New Mexico, but it also gives citizens - particularly young ones - the chance to see what goes into film making and be a part of it. The people of Albuquerque and Las Cruces have been able to apply for minor roles and “extras” positions, enabling them to enjoy the unique movie-making process.
I personally can’t wait to see what all this business brings to New Mexico. I can only see positive things on the horizon for the Albuquerque Studios and their expansion plans.
For more information on the ABQ Studios, click here.
For more information on the NM State Film office and film schedules, click here.
**************************
For All Your Real Estate Needs Contact
Evelyn Bruder, CRS, GRI, ABR, E-PRO,Cyberstar
The Evelyn Bruder Dream Team
CALL 575-650-7224 or TOLL FREE direct line: 1-888-532-9069
VISIT US ONLINE: http://www.HomesForSaleInLasCruces.com
If you are a First Time Homebuyer visit our newest website designed for your specific needs:
http://www.YourFirstHomeInLasCruces.com
Let’s meet online. I look forward to finding you on my social network sites. http://www.linkedin.com/in/evelynbruder
http://facebook.com/evelyn.bruder
http://twitter.com/evelynbruder
OFFICE Direct Line: 575-532-2211 Office number: 1-575-522-3698
Steinborn GMAC Real Estate
Tags:current, evelyn bruder, Investors, las cruces entertainment, New Mexico, NM, real estate, things to do in las cruces, Things to see and do in Las Cruces
