How to sell your ranch

How should you sell your ranch and find the right buyer who will cherish it as much as you do? Here are some pointers to consider.

1. Highlight what you love most about your ranch

   You’ll want buyers to see your ranch’s best features and emphasize them in your marketing efforts. Look into the things that you love most about it and enticed you to buy the property in the first place. Is it the rich woodland where you can hunt? The cascading stream where fishing is excellent? The stunning landscape that changes with the season?

   Consider, as well, all the improvements you’ve made on the property. What have you added or changed that made living or staying in your ranch more enjoyable or comfortable? Likewise, ask yourself what you want to change if you were to stay another year or so in it. These will help you see your property as buyers would.

2. Gather data that will answer buyers’ questions about your ranch

   The information you need includes:

   • Tax information
   • Property assessments
   • Mineral and water rights [link to Month 1 Blog Post 2]
   • Exact property lines
   • Zoning ordinances
   • Utility information
   • Agricultural or land leases
   • Income and expense information

   Invest in inspections and assessment of the land and all buildings and structures on it. The goal is to get an accurate picture of their features and condition and determine where repairs and improvements may be needed.

   Prepare maps detailing the features of the land, including boundaries, ponds, wooded land, pastureland, and others. Provide information about water bodies, such as the depth and breadth of ponds or lakes.

   At the same time, learn as much as you can about the local area (if you haven’t yet) and weigh which features may be appealing to buyers, then highlight these on your listing.

3. Have your property assessed to determine its value

   Pricing your ranch correctly is very important. Get the services of a professional appraiser or an experienced real estate broker. The information you gather about your property can help determine the right price for it.

   Another factor that can influence the value of your property is the price range of similar properties in the area, or in nearby areas where the same buyer will likely look into as well.

4. Prepare your ranch for viewing and photographs

   You’d want your ranch to be seen in its best light. Get rid of clutter and make sure the property is clean and presentable. Have the property lines clearly marked. Make sure the living and working buildings (including houses, barns and stables) are in top shape.

   Great photographs are among your best tools in selling your ranch. Invest in professional photography or a good camera. Drone photography is especially helpful in showcasing the property’s expanse and all its features.

   Take photos of the features you love best. These may include the wildlife that thrive in the area (including those that will appeal to hunters), spectacular views, your favorite fishing spots, water bodies and others.

5. Work with a real estate agent who’s knowledgeable in ranches and similar properties

   Marketing a ranch can be more challenging than marketing any other property type. Work with a professional who knows the ins and outs of the ranching lifestyle, and has extensive experience in ranch properties.

We can help you find the right buyer and get top value for your ranch. Get in touch with me, John Walker, at 361-449-2051 or at [email protected].