Looking for ranch real estate? Well, you are not alone. In the last five years, this sector of real estate has grown dramatically and as a result, the number of ranch properties for sale is on the rise. Owing to the increasing number of options available, you are sure to find a ranch property that suits your needs and fits your budget. Here are 10 things to look for when buying ranch real estate:
1. When you are searching for ranch real estate, one of your main concerns should be water. Look for land that has an abundant supply of groundwater as well as creeks, artesian wells, and springs. The water can be used for field and pasture irrigation, watering livestock, and for your home. Ideally, a ranch property will feature a domestic well containing fresh water that will meet all of your domestic watering needs. Make sure you have rights to the water on the property before purchasing it.
2. Avoid buying property in an area with many natural predators. Natural predators can pose a threat to livestock and crops, making life very difficult for you in the process. Research the types of wildlife than live in the area prior to purchasing a parcel.
3. Find a spacious area with ample country that allows you to run livestock and horses without endangering wildlife.
4. Buy property in a well-preserved area with land that features rich soil, flourishing fauna, and clean air.
5. Look for property that has plenty of grass. Grass is important because although you can provide your livestock with hay and other feeds, you can save a lot of money if there is grass on the property. Make sure that are plenty of grass pastures to feed the livestock you plan on having on your ranch. The more livestock you plan to have the more grass you will need.
6. Make sure there is plenty of shade on your ranch because your livestock will not feel well out in the sun all day, particularly during the summer.
7. Find out what kinds of weeds are growing on the property because some types of weeds can be dangerous to your livestock.
8. Don’t buy ranch real estate in a flood zone. Do your homework to ensure that the land you are buying cannot get flooded. Floods can lead you to lose feed, livestock, and buildings.
9. Make sure the ranch has clear boundaries that are marked or fenced off.
10. Find a ranch that is easily accessible. You must be able to get easily in and out of your ranch, or in other words, there needs to be an access road leading you off the ranch and into town. A ranch that doesn’t have easy access can cause you many difficulties down the road.
Keep these tips in mind when choosing land for your ranch. Prior to deciding on a parcel of land to purchase, make sure that it offers what you need in order to be successful and happy. Do plenty of searching to find property that provides you with what you need at a reasonable price.
Peter Gooding has been developing northern AZ real estate for over 15 years. He specializes in developing the finest Arizona horse properties for sale, including his current project, Las Vegas Ranch Estates, which is a series of Prescott AZ horse property parcels.