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How to Find Your Next Ranch

Finding the perfect ranch can be a complex process with incredible financial and social benefits. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat, a family legacy property, or land for agriculture and livestock, there are several key factors to consider. Here are nine important things to think about when searching for your next ranch (and when you work with us, we’ll ask you about these and more):


1. Location


The location of your ranch sets the stage for everything else (there’s a reason the oldest saying in real estate is “location, location, location”). You’ll want to think about how close it is to nearby towns, amenities, and roads, as well as the growth patterns of the area. If you’re planning to live there full-time or spend weekends with family and friends, easy access to a small town with a grocery store and a hardware store is nice to have. On the other hand, if privacy and seclusion are what you’re after, a more remote location might suit you better. Planning ahead for your trips to the ranch will mitigate the fact that your ranch could be an hour drive to the closest town. 


2. Water Access


Water is essential for any ranch, whether for daily living, livestock, or maintaining a healthy landscape. One of the first aspects of a property that we look at is if it has a reliable water source, such as a well, pond, or water meter from the city or rural water district. If you plan to live on the ranch, even just part-time, having access to clean water is non-negotiable. For larger operations, additional water sources may be necessary to support irrigation or livestock. The availability of water can greatly influence the usability and value of the ranch.


3. Road Frontage



Easy access to the property is something many buyers overlook but can make a big difference. Road frontage not only makes it easier to reach the ranch but also increases its value. Having a well-maintained road leading to the property is especially important if you plan to haul equipment or livestock in and out frequently. Poor road conditions or difficult access could mean more investment in road repairs or maintenance down the line. We also look at the type of road frontage (ex. farm to market road is better than a county road) to help determine the present and future value of the property. 


4. Flood Plain Concerns


Knowing whether the ranch is in a flood plain is critical. Land in a flood zone could limit its use, or at the very least, require you to take extra precautions when building or managing the property. A land professional can help you review flood maps and assess any potential risks to ensure you’re not caught off guard by flooding issues. The location of the flood plain is also important to review. A property that has 25% floodplain at the back of the property is much easier to deal with than a property that is 25% floodplain and all of the floodplain is located close to the road frontage. 


5. Wildlife and Recreation Potential


For those interested in hunting or wildlife management, understanding the local wildlife population is essential. In our area, some places have more deer (but smaller) while other places have fewer deer (but they’re much bigger). A ranch that supports a healthy ecosystem can enhance your enjoyment of the land and its long-term value. Food plots, native trees, and a diverse habitat can all improve the property’s appeal. If this is a priority, a land professional can advise on the best improvements to attract and sustain wildlife.


6. Market Conditions


Understanding current market trends is crucial when purchasing a ranch. Are prices on the rise in the area, or are there opportunities to buy at a lower price on the horizon? A seasoned land & ranch agent will have insights into local market conditions and can advise you on whether a property is a good investment. They can also help you avoid overpaying and guide you through the negotiation process to secure the best deal possible. Negotiating is not just about the price - it’s a combination of price, terms, and the likelihood of closing. When working with land owners or people looking to buy land, we try to find the “win-win” areas that make for a better deal. 


7. Soil Quality


The health of your soil directly affects the land’s productivity, especially if you plan on farming or grazing cattle. High-quality soil can mean more successful crops and healthier livestock. If you’re unfamiliar with soil conditions in an area, we can help you understand what soils are good for a given activity, ensuring that it fits your long-term goals for the property. It is also possible to improve the soil quality over time - we have done this with our personal property through thoughtful maintenance. 


8. Pasture Condition



The quality of the pasture is another important factor for livestock or agricultural use. Well-managed pastures can provide ample grazing opportunities for cattle, horses, or other livestock. Pay attention to the type of grasses, the presence of invasive weeds, and any overgrazing issues. Invasive weeds can be dealt with in 1-2 years (depending on how bad the pasture is) while overgrazing issues may take 3+ years to fix. If the pasture needs improvement, a land agent can offer advice on how to restore it, whether it’s through rest, reseeding, or herbicide and fertilizing.


9. Infrastructure


Existing infrastructure on the ranch can save you time and money. Look for barns, equipment sheds, fencing, corrals, and any other necessary facilities that support ranch operations. If these structures are in good condition, that’s a major plus. If not, you’ll need to budget for repairs or new construction. A land professional can help you evaluate whether it’s worth buying a ranch with existing infrastructure or starting fresh.


Finding the right ranch is a big decision, and having the right knowledge and support can make all the difference. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a working ranch, it’s important to consider all the factors that will impact your enjoyment and investment over the long term. With nearly 25 years of experience in land and ranch real estate, we can help you navigate the process, from identifying the perfect property to securing financing and closing the deal.


If you’re ready to start your search or just need some advice on where to begin, contact us today. We’ll be happy to discuss your specific needs and guide you every step of the way to make sure you find a ranch that fits your vision. Reach out, and let’s get started on making your dream ranch a reality!

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Contact Story Group Land & Ranches today

If you are looking to buy or sell land in Texas, we are here to provide you with the best service possible. We have the skills and knowledge to help you find the perfect property for your needs and we are committed to making sure that your experience is smooth and stress-free. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your real estate goals, please do not hesitate to reach out to us today. We look forward to hearing from you.

Service Areas:

  • Bosque County

  • Denton County

  • Erath County

  • Hill County

  • Hood County

  • Johnson County

  • Limestone County

  • McLennan County

  • Navarro County

  • Somervell County

  • Tarrant County

  • Wise County

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