If you have been considering investing in new property and have decided to venture into a working ranch, it's important that you know what to consider. Ranch properties are unique and require many different considerations when you're looking for the right one. Here are a few things that you should ask about when you evaluate working ranches for sale.
Ask About The Livestock
If you're buying a working ranch, the property sale may or may not include the livestock. Make sure that you ask about the livestock as part of the deal. If you're getting the livestock included in the purchase, you can more accurately evaluate the asking price of the property. Remember that the livestock will hold significant value, and consider what it would cost you to replace all of them when you're determining if it's worth the price.
If the livestock will not be included in the purchase, you need to know when the current owners plan to have them off the property. They may assume that, if you're not bringing livestock in right away, they can house their livestock for a week or two while they decide how or where to move them. Make sure everything is clear from the beginning so that there are no surprises.
Consider The Access Rights
Especially if you are planning on maintaining the working ranch with livestock, you need to be sure that you know what kind of access rights come with the property. Is there fresh water accessible? Who holds the water rights on the property? This is important to know because, if the water rights belong to a neighboring ranch, they could cut off your access to the water at any time and there's nothing you can do about it.
You'll also want to make sure you know if anyone has access rights to travel across the property. Make sure that, if there are any throughways, you know where they are so that you don't inadvertently fence or gate them off. You can face legal concerns if you do this.
Assess The Infrastructure
Take some time to ride the fencelines throughout the entire ranch. Make sure you know what condition all of the fences, water troughs, shelter structures, and barns are in. Remember that any damage will become your responsibility to deal with if you don't address it during the purchase.
You'll also want to be sure that the pastures are in good condition. They should be healthy, lush, and thriving enough to sustain grazing for your livestock. Ask the current owner what they have done for pasture growth and maintenance so that you can keep up with it as well. The more you know about the property's care and history, the easier it will be for you to maintain it.
To find ranches for sale, contact a real estate agency near you.
