H
olly Scheib and Paul Wisneskey, a couple with a 25-year marriage, have made a habit of buying homes that need work. They've perfected a pattern: moving into a fixer-upper, fixing it up, and building sweat equity. Their latest challenge was finding the perfect home in Taos, New Mexico, where Ms. Scheib had accepted a job as director of community development for the UNESCO-listed Taos Pueblo.

    With an $800,000 budget, they had ample choice in this mountainous high-desert town known for its Indigenous culture and thriving art scene. However, their requirements were specific: a reasonable commute for Ms. Scheib, space for Mr. Wisneskey's remote work as a software architect, and room for their two children, who would be visiting but not living full-time.

    Aesthetically, they sought a traditional Taos vibe – an adobe or adobe lookalike with exposed wood ceiling supports known as vigas and latillas – and stunning high-desert views. They were willing to refashion the rest of the house to fit their needs. "The design is all Holly," said Mr. Wisneskey, "I just do the work."

    Their options included a 2021 Southwest-style house in the Las Olas subdivision, which offered an open floor plan and expansive views but felt tight at 1,574 square feet. Another option was a charming weathered adobe from 2004 in Ranchos de Taos, with a generous deck for sunset views and 2,541 square feet of living space. The third contender was a 1996 Southwest-style house in the Weimer Area, which had been operating as an unpermitted rental but had good bones, including beautiful vigas and latillas.

    After weighing their options, they chose...