When Kristopher and Ariana first met through a mutual friend in Truckee, California, they didn’t know their shared sense of adventure would eventually lead them to a new life in New Mexico. At the time, Kristopher was working as a real estate agent in Truckee, while Ariana was living in Reno, Nevada, finishing PA school. Together, they began dreaming about what life could look like beyond the places they had always known. “We are both nomadic in nature”, they shared. “We loved where we came from, but we wanted to try something new.” 

After several trips to New Mexico, they found themselves drawn in by the state’s wide-open landscapes, rich culture, and endless opportunity. The weather, scenery, outdoor recreation, and more affordable cost of living all stood out, but there was something deeper that kept pulling them back. “We were awe-struck by the wild nature and saw potential in building a life here,” they said. In 2023, they made the leap and moved to New Mexico together, ready to begin a new chapter.  

Today, Ariana works as a physician assistant in primary care, where she enjoys helping patients navigate their health journeys. Kristopher now works for the New Mexico Rail Runner, helping connect communities across the state through public transportation. Through his work, he says he has become deeply connected to the people and communities that make New Mexico unique. “I’ve had the opportunity to engage with every creed and culture throughout the state,” he said. “I really enjoy building influential partnerships that help grow the system and help others reach their goals.” While adjusting to life in New Mexico came with a bit of culture shock, the couple quickly fell in love with the diversity, kindness and authenticity they found here. “How would we describe New Mexico to someone who has never visited?” they said. “Very kind. Genuine.  

Like many first-time homebuyers, Kristopher and Ariana knew they wanted more than just a place to live – they wanted stability, room to grow, and a future they could build together. New Mexico offered them that opportunity. New Mexico made homeownership feel possible. “We were shopping around and learned about the nonprofit status of Homewise, which immediately piqued our interest,” they said. “Homewise was exactly what we were looking for – great education, no pressure to “sell” us on anything, and someone to work with one-to-one.” That personal guidance made all the difference. “Amazing for a scared first-time homebuyer,” they added.  

Their homeownership journey wasn’t without uncertainty. Financial literacy and navigating the process felt overwhelming at times, but with support from Homewise, they found guidance every step of the way. Working closely with Joe at Homewise helped ease many of the uncertainties they faced along the way. “Thank goodness for Joe,” they shared. “He was extremely informative and walked us through the six-month process.” Now, their home has become what they lovingly call their “little oasis in the desert.” It’s a place where they can host family, enjoy outdoor living, and continue creating a life together in a state that has already changed so much for them. 

When asked what “home” means to them today, their answer was simple: family. They spend weekend hiking and camping in the Jemez and Manzano mountains, enjoy local traditions like the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, and embracing the culture that is celebrated throughout New Mexico. And while they admit one thing still surprises them – “how fast people drive!” – they’ve come to appreciate the unique spirit of the state. “Loud and proud,” they said, smiling. For Ariana, “New Mexico gave me opportunity.” For Kristopher, “New Mexico gave me clarity. Our vision of the future is clearer.” 

“It allowed us to purchase our first home at a decent price point”, they said. “It allowed us both the opportunity to grow our careers. We feel more confident with our decision making and more hopeful for our future. It allowed us to think bigger.” And together, they’ve found something many people are searching for: a place where possibility feels real, where community matters, and where building a future that feels within reach.  

For those considering making New Mexico home, Kristopher offers one final piece of advice: “Red, green, Christmas? They’re talking about the chiles”