Things To Consider Before Buying Colorado Cattle Ranches

When purchasing a cattle ranch, there are many considerations to keep in mind as you embark on your real estate journey. A cattle ranch in the great state of Colorado will bring you not only the potential for income opportunities but will also give you many years of enjoyment and deliver a wonderful family legacy.

Location

As the saying goes, “Location, location, location!” The location of your future home and property investment is arguably the most important point to consider. The right location can make or break your success. In addition to thinking about property values and future demand, you will need to keep several other factors in mind when purchasing a rural property such as a cattle ranch. Variables such as climate, natural resources, growing season, elevation, land use rights, property access, and more all make a difference in your purchase decision. For cattle ranching, you will want to be sure you are in an area where cattle markets, feed lots, and other resources are easily accessible.

Property Rights, Easements, and Zoning

There are several aspects of rural real estate land sale that don’t typically come up during the conventional home buying process. However, these are some of the single most important factors to consider when buying ranch land for purposes such as cattle ranching. Water rights, mineral rights, and access rights are all critical to the future success of your property. Legal regulations and restrictions can make or break the sale. Access rights determine how you and others will access your property. They can include frontage road access or the use of deeded easements. Water rights allow for the legal use of the water on your property without actually owning it (which is important for cattle ranching), and mineral rights regulate property owner access to natural resources below the surface such as coal and natural gas. Every property will have its own terms and conditions that you will need to determine and consider before making a purchase.

Land Development and Improvements

Some ranchers enjoy developing and improving upon the land themselves, while others prefer to purchase a turnkey property that is ready to get up and running. If you will be improving the property after your purchase, it is important to configure those additional costs into your budget and consider the extra time that it will take to make the necessary land upgrades. These improvements can be very time-consuming and, in some cases, a legal headache as you deal with land surveys, soil tests, connecting utilities, land excavation, and other hassles. However, purchasing a turnkey property can be more expensive than “doing it yourself,” which is another factor you will need to consider in making your purchase decision.

Accessibility and Livability

You will want to find out important details about your property’s accessibility and livability before you make your purchase decision. For many people, a large piece of property is the biggest investment they will ever make. It is, therefore, important to know if some or all of your property will be flooded, blocked by snowfall, or otherwise inaccessible 90 percent of the year.

Harsh climates, short growing seasons, and frequent droughts can similarly be a dealbreaker when it comes to locating the perfect cattle ranch property in Colorado. Do you need to be close to town? If being located next to the big city is important to you, expect to pay more and experience possible competition for your purchase.

Final Thoughts

At Mirr Ranch Group, we have the knowledge and expertise necessary to help you buy your dream Colorado cattle ranch. Give us a call today to learn more about rural land purchases in the Rocky Mountain State.

Types of Wyoming Ranches for Sale

Wyoming is one of the top states with available acreage for sale to those wishing to invest in ranch ownership. Residents enjoy the state’s natural beauty, breathtaking mountain ranges, and abundant wildlife, offering unrivaled fish and game opportunities. But what kinds of ranches are available to those wishing to move to the Cowboy State? When you’re looking for a place to call your own in Wyoming, there are a few different property types to consider.

Hunting Ranches

Common big game found on Wyoming hunting ranches include whitetail deer, mule deer, elk, bear, and moose, while the most common small game hunting includes ducks and geese. The best hunting in the state is in the area surrounding the Yellowstone and Jackson Hole areas. Other attractive hunting habitats include the Green River and the Bighorn Mountains. Many recreational properties also offer convenient access to natural bodies of water for fishing.

Fishing Ranches

Fishing ranches offer unparalleled recreational opportunities for fishing enthusiasts. With private water access and the ability to add your own custom home and land improvements, the investment in a fishing ranch will be an investment you won’t regret and one that your whole family will treasure. Wyoming offers many teeming waters for fishing, including the Snake River and Green River, as well as the Bighorn River and Wind River, where fly fishers can find an abundance of cutthroat trout.

Cattle Ranches

With an ideal climate and a drive of less than three hours to Denver, the southeastern portion of Wyoming is becoming a hotspot for cattle ranches. Wyoming is home to more than 1 million cattle, especially in the southeastern counties of the state, including Albany, Platte, Goshen, Laramie, and Converse. The area also offers access to everything you need to run a successful operation. Cattle markets, feedlots, feed crops, and natural water sources are all easily accessible in southeastern Wyoming. Some cattle ranches also offer recreational opportunities for hunting and fishing.

Equestrian Ranches

The state’s scenic views and mild climate make Wyoming an ideal place for equestrian lovers to call home. A rancher can turn their horse property into an income-producing guest ranch, boarding facility, or breeding operation. Or you can simply enjoy the views and the trail rides with your own family. In your property search, try to find a ranch with existing stables and other land improvements, a place to call home, and lots of scenic trails for riding. Ranches in the southeastern portion of the state have the benefit of being close to the big city (Denver, Colorado), although the best views will be found in the northwestern sector.

Agricultural Ranches

More than 30 million acres of Wyoming ranch land is used to produce crops and livestock. The main crops are hay, wheat, barley, sugar beets, beans, and corn, with wheat and barley production bringing in tens of millions of dollars annually. If you’re looking to start an agricultural ranch in Wyoming, search for a property with large acreage, sufficient rainfall, and other favorable conditions for farming.

Final Thoughts

Ready to take a look at available offerings and buy your dream ranch home? Let Mirr Ranch Group help you locate and purchase the perfect piece of property for you and your family.

Finding the Best Ranches for Sale in Utah

The state of Utah is known for its natural scenery and beauty. Ranching opportunities abound in the areas of hunting, fishing, equestrian activities, cattle ranching, and farming. Any land purchase in this beautiful state would make a great investment opportunity, but how do you find the best ranch for you? What factors should you be looking for? Let’s review some of the considerations to keep in mind when finding the best ranches for sale in Utah for your family.

Most Popular Locations

The northeastern portion of the state is perfect for those wishing to live near Salt Lake City and is home to many cattle, equestrian, and agricultural ranches. In addition, picturesque fishing ranches are available near the Provo, Logan, and Green Rivers, and world-class hunting is available near the Wyoming and Colorado borders.

By contrast, the southwestern part of Utah (near Zion National Park) is ideal for those seeking out a more secluded ranch property surrounded by natural beauty. Southern Utah is less developed than the northern regions of the state, and ranches in the southwestern portion of the state are ideal for hunting and fly fishing.

Wherever you choose to purchase your Utah ranch, you will want to consider important factors such as land elevation, regional climate, the growing season, and availability of natural resources.

Accessibility

You will also need to consider if you prefer to live close to a more populated urban area (such as Salt Lake City) or if you feel more at home in the seclusion of a more rural ranch property. Those who purchase land in the northern portion of the state will have much easier access to medical care, supplies, and other amenities of the big city.

Those who choose a more remote property will need to pay special attention to factors such as access rights, land development, and property access. Are there roads leading to your property? Are those roads accessible 365 days of the year, or are there times when they are flooded or blocked by overgrowth? These are all important questions to ask before making a purchase decision.

Investment Quality and Land Development

It is best to purchase a rural property that has already been set up or used for the same use you intend to utilize the ranch for. But many ranchers buy untouched land with a plan for development. Do you plan on developing your ranch land? Whether you’re looking for a great investment that will stay in your family for many generations to come or are planning on creating an income-generating business, you’ll want to pay extra close attention to current and future property values. Making your own improvements can be a lucrative way to increase your land value and create instant equity in your property.

Final Thoughts

There are many things to consider when looking for the best ranches for sale in the great state of Utah. At Mirr Ranch Group, we help you make the decisions that matter. Give us a call today to consult with us on your Utah ranch purchase!

Best States to Find Turnkey Ranches for Sale

Buying a turnkey ranch may cost you a bit more than developing the land yourself. In fact, you may encounter some steep competition during your purchase process, but you will likely save yourself a large amount of stress. A turnkey ranches allow you to realize your rural property ownership dreams without all the headaches of land development and improvement. No need to worry about improving paved road access, hooking up new utilities, or digging water wells.

So, where are the best states to find properties that have had all the work done for you? Let’s review the options.

Colorado

Colorado offers many opportunities to own your own recreational or income-producing ranch property. With quick and easy access to major cities like Denver and nearby Salt Lake City or Albuquerque, many ranches in Colorado have already been developed and are ready for you to move in and begin your new life on the open range. In addition, due to the state’s unique ecological diversity, scenic landscapes, and ideal climate, you can’t go wrong with a gorgeous rural property in the Rocky Mountain State. Popular offerings include cattle ranches, equestrian ranches, fly fishing ranches, and agricultural ranches for crops such as corn, hay, wheat, and potatoes. Lastly, the mountains of Colorado offer fine opportunities for outdoor lovers looking to pursue additional recreational endeavors such as hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.

Utah

Nearby Utah is another great option for developed rural land, particularly in the region surrounding Salt Lake City. In a beautiful state full of national parks and forests, the area’s natural resources make ranching efforts a breeze. With many acres available at bargain deals, you would be hard-pressed to find a better state in which to begin a hunting ranch or cattle ranch. Deer and elk are the most popular big game available for hunting, and developed hunting land should be easy to find. In addition, many turnkey agricultural ranches are available for growing hay, wheat, barley, and corn. The demand for locally grown cattle feed makes agricultural ranches a worthwhile endeavor in this fine state.

Wyoming

Turnkey offerings in the great state of Wyoming include hunting and fishing ranches, cattle ranches, and agricultural ranches. In particular, the southeastern portion of Wyoming is becoming an increasingly popular area to buy and sell various types of ranches. With close access to Denver, an ideal climate, and high demand for cattle ranching and feed crops, the area offers everything you need to run a successful operation. Those looking for recreational opportunities will be delighted with the natural resources, fly fishing opportunities, and big game available for hunting/fishing ranches. These lucrative opportunities attract many to the Cowboy State each year, making Wyoming a great place to pick up a turnkey ranch property.

Final Thoughts

At Mirr Ranch Group, we’re experts in the unique rural property considerations that come with buying and selling turnkey ranches for sale in many U.S. states. Give us a call today for help finding the right property that is move-in ready and meets your family’s needs!

3 Ways to Use Ranch Property for Sale in Utah

The Beehive State offers some of the most fantastic landscapes anywhere in the country. With a multitude of lakes, forests, mountains, deserts, and plains to explore, it is an ideal destination for a vacation home or recreational retreat. Utah is the perfect place to enjoy recreational activities — with a national park, forest, or monument never very far away.

Some ranchers also decide to run agricultural businesses or hobby farms, so whatever your reason for looking at Utah properties, the options are nearly endless. In this post, we will highlight three ways to enjoy ranch property for sale in Utah.

Recreational Retreats or Vacation Homes

Lovers of the great outdoors should look for a property close to public land, a national park, or a ski resort. Whether you’re a fan of big game hunting, skiing, hiking, fly-fishing, or hiking, Utah has something to offer year-round. 

Utah is home to five spectacular national parks — Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches. Some ranch properties in the southwestern corner of Utah offer excellent access to Zion National Park while also providing the perfect habitat for big game. It isn’t uncommon to see trophy elk and mule deer roaming the land in quieter mountain ranches in the area.

Ranches farther north, in places like Morgan County, offer year-round recreational activities, with easy access to the major cities and airports in the area. That makes ranches ideal for people who don’t plan to live on the ranch full time. Large herds of mule deer roam the lands in this part of the state, so it is an excellent place for hunters. There is also some outstanding fly-fishing in the area, with many great spots to catch brown trout, cutthroat trout, and rainbow trout.

People more interested in using a ranch property solely as a vacation home should look for something a little smaller in terms of acreage. You will also want easy access to an airport or highway so you can quickly get in and out for weekends or on the holidays. 

Agricultural Ranches

Agriculture plays a significant role in Utah’s economy, so many ranchers opt to run cattle or grow crops. Beef, hay, and dairy products are the three biggest cash generators in the state, while Utah is also the second-largest producer of tart cherries in the United States. The best options for your property will depend on the location, size, water, climate, and soil quality. If you are new to ranching, then it would make sense to speak to a local ranch management company to determine what options are viable. 

Another option that some ranchers consider is leasing land for grazing or running small-scale farming operations for supplemental income. If you have land to spare, this is a very attractive opportunity for local cattle runners looking to scale up their operations, as it will be much more profitable for them to lease the land. 

In all cases, you should have a clear idea about how you want to use your ranch before starting your search.

3 Reasons to Purchase Ranch Land for Sale in Colorado

The Centennial State is home to some of the finest land in the entire United States. The landscape is dominated by mountains in the central and western regions, while the Great Plains in the east are Colorado’s agricultural heartland. 

Colorado has a long and rich ranching history and is home to some of the country’s best ranch land. In recent years, the state has been attracting new ranchers with its combination of wide-open spaces, world-class ski resorts, and a diverse range of income-producing activities. In this post, we take a look at three reasons why people should consider investing in ranch land for sale in Colorado.

Vacation Homes

Most people think of wide-open spaces, mountains, and ski resorts when they think of Colorado. That makes the state ideal for vacation homes or people looking to escape the city on a more permanent basis. 

Ranchland in the vicinity of Hayden is an excellent option for many people, as it offers quick access to Steamboat Springs ski resort and Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. The nearby Yampa Valley Airport means it is convenient to fly into the area during the weekend or holidays. Properties close to any of the national parks or ski resorts are always in demand, so the land’s value is likely to increase. 

For investors looking for a parcel of land with less time commitment, the state is also home to shared ranching communities. One of the most exclusive is Elk Creek Ranch (ECR), enabling owners to enjoy world-class facilities and exclusive access to some of the best elk hunting anywhere in the world. This is a perfect introduction to ranch life for ranchers looking for vacation homes. 

Recreational Ranch

Life outdoors is what attracts many people to Colorado. With mountains, forests, lakes, and grasslands to explore, there is always something to enjoy. 

The state offers some of the best hunting opportunities for big game. Depending on where the property is, you may see large herds of elk, mule deer, and whitetail deer roaming the land. An abundance of rivers, lakes, creeks, and streams make the state ideal for fly-fishers of all abilities. 

Some ranchers take advantage of their location, water access, and landowner hunting tags to run exclusive sporting lodges. These tend to attract discerning clientele willing to pay premium prices for private hunting or fly-fishing. Ranches close to ski resorts can also offer high-quality lodging for families wanting to escape the crowds.

Agricultural Operation

Agriculture is big business in Colorado, with over 66 million acres dedicated to farms and ranches. The Great Plains and the Wyoming Basin’s fertile soil is perfect for a wide range of crops. The main drivers of Colorado’s agricultural industry include cattle, calves, dairy products, hay, wheat, corn, and dairy products.

Many new ranchers are attracted to the state for the diversity of the land and the recreational activities. Even if you aren’t planning to manage the land yourself, you can still run profitable agricultural operations. Hiring a ranch management team is an excellent option for many people, as they will take care of crop rotations and ensure the profitable management of agricultural operations. 

As a bonus, agricultural property in Colorado is taxed at a lower rate, potentially leading to huge savings on your tax bill. 

Types of Colorado Ranches for Sale

If you’re in the market for a nice piece of ranch land to call your own, Colorado is probably on your shortlist of states to consider buying in. As one of the most picturesque areas of the country, Colorado has much to offer prospective buyers.

No matter what type of land you buy, you can rest assured that your purchase decision is a great investment. Here’s a quick rundown of some of the available types of ranch properties you can find in the great Rocky Mountain state.

Cattle Ranches

As one of the top cattle-producing states in the U.S. (number 10 to be exact), Colorado is home to many large cattle ranches and more than 3 million head of cattle. In fact, the raising of beef cattle is the state’s number 1 agricultural endeavor.  Most of Colorado’s cattle ranches can be found in the eastern plains region with some grazing lands also available in the Rocky Mountains and in the basin area of western Colorado.

Big Game Hunting Ranches

Many Colorado ranches offer access to unparalleled natural wildlife habitats for big game such as elk, deer, pronghorn and even bears. An abundance of untouched, untamed land across much of the state makes finding a big game hunting ranch an easy task in the Rocky Mountain state. Some of these properties even include access to fly fishing streams.

Fly Fishing Ranches

One of Colorado’s greatest claims to fame is its status as a well-known destination for fly fishing. The abundance of natural mountain streams, crystal blue lakes, and rushing rivers creates many popular locales for catching trout underneath an open sky and stunning mountain backdrop. Colorado is home to more than 9,000 miles of trout streams, which are home to large quantities of rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout. Many fishing properties are located along popular waters such as the Roaring Fork River, Frying Pan River, or Crystal River, and many ranches even include access to big game hunting opportunities.

Horse & Equestrian Properties

The picturesque Colorado mountains make a great backdrop for any horse farm. As a western state, cowboy culture never completely left these parts. Whether you’re hoping to breed horses, facilitate lessons, or simply enjoy a beautiful equestrian property, the great state of Colorado is a wonderful choice. Many turnkey equestrian properties are available.

Agricultural Farmland

Natural water sources, acres upon acres of open land, and a semi-arid climate make the eastern plains region of Colorado the ideal growing environment for many crops such as corn, wheat, hay, and oats. Cattle ranching, dairy farming, and hog farming are also popular in this region. In the west, cool nights, and warm days allow farmers to grow many delicious crops such as peaches, sweet corn, apples, and berries. A large wine production industry thrives in this region as well. In the mountains, ranchers can expect ideal grazing conditions for cattle, abundant hay production, and the ability to easily grow cold-weather crops such as lettuce and spinach.

Final Thoughts

At Mirr Ranch Group, our experts know the land well. Whether you’re looking for big game hunting, a fly fishing haven, or a traditional cattle ranch, we’d love to help you find your next home or property in the great state of Colorado. Give us a call today!

4 Things to Consider Before You Buy Utah Ranches

For many ranchers, there is no greater feeling than owning your very own piece of the great American outdoors! However, locating and buying a ranch property is not quite the same experience as buying a regular single-family home. There are many critical things to keep in mind before purchasing a Utah ranch property. Here are some of the things to consider before you buy Utah ranches.

Future Usage

It is ideal to purchase a property that has already been set up or used for the same purpose you intend to utilize the ranch for. For example, if you are looking for a cattle ranch, a property with existing grazing land and irrigated pastures as well as fencing, corrals, sheds, and other supportive structures is going to be a more effective purchase than buying a former hunting ground. And if you are looking for a fly fishing property, it won’t do you any good to purchase a working dairy farm. A qualified real estate agent who specializes in ranches can help you identify and locate the type of ranch you want.

Location

Many Utah ranches are located in the northwestern or southeastern regions of the state. Your ideal location will also depend on the property type. Fly fishing ranches tend to be located along the Provo, Logan, or Green rivers. Cattle ranching is most common among the state’s lower-lying ground in Utah’s many lower canyons, valleys, and basins. In addition to topography, you will also need to consider climate and growing season if you will be growing crops or raising livestock. It is important to work with someone who can help you locate the very best property for you.

Amenities

Another factor to consider is how close to any city resources you would like to be. Utah ranches can be very rural and isolated, or they can be located along major roads closer to city utilities, shopping, health care facilities, and other resources. Your answer to this question may also depend on whether you intend to live on this property year-round, use it as a vacation home only, make it into a working ranch, or rent it out to visitors. A hunting property you only need to reach a few times per year will not need as much access to local roads and amenities as a primary residence or working farm would.

Rights, Deeds & Restrictions

Some legal considerations to keep in mind are mineral rights, access rights, and water rights. Water rights allow you to legally use water for agricultural and other purposes, even if you don’t own it. Mineral rights regulate the use of natural resources that are just below the surface, such as oil, gas, and coal. Access rights have to do with your ability to access your property either from roads or neighboring properties. Some of these legal considerations may not apply to you depending on what you will be using the property for, so it is important to speak with a qualified professional before making your purchase.

Final Thoughts

Investing in ranch land in the great state of Utah is a fantastic investment choice. However, understanding all of the nuances that go into making such a large purchase is critical to ensuring your success. Buying ranch land is a big decision that can come with huge benefits. Talking to a qualified expert can help you make an educated and informed purchase decision. At Mirr Ranch Group, we have the knowledge and expertise you need to succeed, and we are happy to speak with you about your dream ranch property. Give us a call today!

Three of the Best Spots to Buy Idaho Ranches

Idaho is famous for its mountainous landscapes and untouched wilderness. It is home to miles upon miles of rivers and 4.7 million acres of stunning natural landscapes, including Shoshone Falls and Hell’s Canyon—the deepest gorge in the United States. The diversity of the landscape makes it the perfect place for a wide range of recreational activities.

Investors looking for ranch land for recreational usage are usually attracted by the wide-open spaces and lack of human encroachment. If you are looking to escape, then there are many end-of-the-road locations available within an easy drive of ski resorts and national parks. This article will focus on three of the best spots to buy Idaho ranches.

Silver Creek 

Silver Creek in central Idaho is one of the best places for fly-fishing anywhere in the country. Large numbers of brook trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout can be found in the crystal-clear waters of Silver Creek. The combination of clean water, abundant food sources for the fish, and spectacular views make it a perfect place to snag a prize catch.

Anglers come from all over the globe to enjoy fishing in the area, so owning a ranch in the region holds many advantages. Some ranches may have private access to some stretches of water, while others can take advantage of their position by offering premium quality lodging.

As the area is well-watered, it is a great place to run productive agricultural operations such as cattle.

Sun Valley

Sun Valley is home to a famous ski resort known for its challenging runs and outstanding facilities. Bald Mountain offers world-class skiing runs that will challenge more experienced skiers and snowboarders. More inexperienced skiers will enjoy the gentler runs of Dollar Mountain.

There are numerous recreational activities to enjoy throughout the year, including white water rafting, hiking, fly-fishing, and top-quality golfing. The resort also offers many high-quality restaurants and other facilities.

Ranches in the area offer easy access to the amenities of the ski resort while providing an escape from the crowds. Investors looking for weekend getaways or vacation retreats will be attracted by the range of facilities and outstanding local infrastructure.

Idaho County

Idaho is home to a wide variety of wildlife, and big game hunting can be enjoyed throughout the state.

Idaho County is one of the best spots for folks looking for hunting ranches within the state. With a mixture of rugged terrain and wooded mountains, the area provides an ideal habitat for a lot of big game. The forested area of the region is predominately public land, but it is possible to buy private land in or near the area.

Elk and white-tailed deer roam the area in large numbers, while mule deer may be a little harder to find. The consistent, high-quality hunting attracts hunters from across the country, so investment-minded buyers can take advantage by offering premium lodging in the area.

4 Things to Look for in Idaho Ranches for Sale

With some of the most pristine land in the United States, Idaho has long attracted outdoor lovers longing to escape the urban grind. Ranch property in the state can be used for a wide variety of purposes, but in recent years, a growing number of individuals are looking for smaller properties to use as recreational retreats. That comes as no surprise, as the state has some of the best hunting and fly-fishing opportunities in the country.

Whatever your reason for looking for a ranch property, there are many attractive investment opportunities in Idaho. If you are planning to invest in the Gem State, then read on to learn about things to look for in Idaho ranches for sale.

Purpose

The first thing you should consider before you start searching for ranches is what you want to use the property for. If you are planning to run an agricultural business, you will need to research the water rights, soil quality, and environmental conditions of potential ranches to see if they are viable options.

Likewise, if you are looking for a recreational ranch, you will need to search for local activities and access to transport infrastructure.

Zoning and Other State Regulations

It is essential to learn about the zoning regulations in Idaho if you want to buy a plot of land to build your dream home. Some areas may be protected or have restrictions regarding housing developments, which will impact your plans.

Other factors that will need to be considered are access rights, water and mineral rights, and whether the property has a conservation easement.

Hunting Opportunities

Many folks are attracted to Idaho because of the outstanding hunting opportunities within the state.

Idaho has one of the largest herd populations of elk in the United States, but it doesn’t tend to draw the crowds that visit other states. It has some of the best and most challenging hunting conditions available in the American West and has options for archery, muzzleloader, and rifle. If you are a keen hunter, you will want to find a property located on or near a productive hunting unit. Some properties will provide good-quality habitats for elk and other big game species, and they may even qualify for private landowner tags.

Recreational Activities

Many investors are choosing smaller ranches to suit their lifestyles. They are looking for a vacation home where they can spend days enjoying all the recreational activities that the state offers. However, it is always a good idea to consider the recreational activities you would like to enjoy on the property.

Some ranches may have an abundance of water sources that provide opportunities for fishing and boating, while others might enjoy locations close to ski resorts. Idaho is one of the best states for trout fishing in the United States, with Snake River and Silver Creek being great spots for a trophy catch. Ranches located in these areas may offer private access to tributaries or stretches of these well-stocked waters.