The Cruikshank Realty Blog

SE Colorado Gems: Daytrips near Prowers County Homes

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 20:07:44 GMT

In the southeastern corner of Colorado, Prowers County homes offer residents a special brand of adventure, history, and down-to-earth fun. True, others see Colorado as towering mountains and bustling ski towns. But daytrips and wide open properties in Prowers County do warm our hearts.

You, too, can enjoy the rural lifestyle. Whether you’re a local on a daytrip or planning to visit, here’s a friendly guide to some favorite things to do within 100 miles of Prowers County, Colorado.

Experience the Outdoors

Buy a property in Prowers County and you’ll see how open skies and wide landscapes of southeastern Colorado provide endless opportunities to connect with nature. Found just northwest of Prowers County, the John Martin Reservoir State Park brims with options for fishing, boating, and birdwatching. It’s alive with a diverse bird collection. Binoculars will help anyone distinguish bald eagles, pelicans, and herons in the distance. We hike along expansive trails and often stop to enjoy a family picnic. Others come to set up camp in tranquility under the stars.

Anyone who prefers an even quieter escape can head to Two Buttes Reservoir State Wildlife Area. You’ll get there in less than an hour south from Lamar properties. Lamar serves as a hub and the seat of Prowers County. Two Buttes, a hidden gem, invites visitors to come see wildlife, fish for bass and catfish, and to simply savor the peace of the prairie. Imagine a perfect spot to disconnect and soak up the serenity of the plains.

Diving into History

Right here in Southeastern Colorado, you’ll come to understand some fascinating history. We’re smack dab in the center of the USA and experienced the move in the 1800s to the western frontier. For example, just outside Las Animas, the Boggsville Historic Site teaches interested parties about Colorado’s pioneer days. How? Boggsville has stories about Kit Carson and other notable figures. Take self-guided and guided tours of restored buildings from the 1860s. Walking through this preserved settlement, everyone gets a real sense of what frontier life was like.

Not far away, the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site is a place of reflection and learning. Located northeast of Prowers County, this site commemorates a tragic chapter in American history and provides a respectful space to understand the impact of the 1864 event on the Cheyenne and Arapaho people. Interpretive trails and visitor programs offer an educational experience that resonates with all ages.

Festivals and Local Flavor

Residents of Prowers County homes and neighboring communities take pride in their agricultural roots. Nowhere is this clearer than at the many local festivals and fairs. A summer highlight, the Prowers County Fair in Lamar features rodeos, livestock shows, live music, and plenty of delicious food. The fantastic community spirit and hospitality that’s unique to this region flourishes at the fair.

For a quirky side, check out the annual Southeast Colorado Cowboy Gathering. This event celebrates cowboy poetry, storytelling, and music, capturing the humor and rugged charm of Colorado’s ranching culture. Whether you’re a lifelong cowboy or a city slicker, you’ll find yourself laughing along and learning a thing or two about life on the range.

Hidden Treasures and Family Fun

Daytrips traveling with kids and looking for some offbeat fun? Try the Big Timbers Museum in Lamar. Just look for the real caboose and other historic vehicles outside. The museum’s exhibits span from local history and pioneer artifacts to a touching memorial dedicated to veterans.

Don’t miss the opportunity to drive along a stretch of the historic Santa Fe Trail. The scenic trail passes through Prowers County. Kids love stopping at the interpretive signs and taking photos of the views. It’s an ideal way to learn about the journeys of traders and settlers who once traversed this storied route.

Nature’s Spectacle: Prairie Sunsets

Finally, one of the simplest yet most awe-inspiring pleasures in this region: the sunset. Find a quiet country road or open field, and watch as the sky blazes with oranges, pinks, and purples. With less pollution, stargazing holds up as a favorite adventure. Bring a blanket and let the wonders of the universe unfold overhead.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, history, or just a friendly place to unwind, the area within 100 miles of Prowers County has something for everyone. Pack your sense of curiosity and discover the special joys of southeastern Colorado!

Searching Prowers County Homes for Sale

Is it time to discover adventure, history, and the local charm of Colorado's Southeastern plains? Call (719) 336-7802 and find out more about land and homes in the region. The Realtors and Brokers at Cruikshank Realty, Inc. would love to welcome you. Schedule an appointment or come see us at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052.

Selling Your Home Quickly in a Slow Market: Property Auctions

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 17:48:02 GMT

Are property auctions on your horizon? If you’ve listed your house but feel stuck waiting for a buyer in a slow market, you’re not alone. High interest rates and sluggish demand can make it feel impossible to get out from under your property and get on with your life. But you don’t have to let the current housing climate stall your plans for retirement, a new job, or for moving closer to family.

A Faster Path: Selling Homes at Property Auctions

In southeastern Colorado, Realtors at Cruikshank Realty offer an alternative to the traditional home-selling process. The Lamar company includes experienced auctioneers. Rather than waiting weeks or months for the right buyer, ask an auctioneer to give you a set sale date and attract competitive bids. This method allows you to move forward faster. The approach can be especially appealing if you want to springboard into new opportunities without delay.

Five Moves to Get Out of the Mud

1. Consider an Auction Sale

An auction is a proactive way to sell your property quickly, especially in a slow market. Auctioneers can evaluate your situation and guide you through the process, helping you achieve a fair price and a swift closing.

2. Price Realistically and Competitively

Work with local experts to set a price that matches current market conditions. Being realistic helps attract serious buyers, even when the market is slow.

3. Enhance Curb Appeal

Make your home stand out by improving landscaping, repainting, and ensuring everything looks inviting. First impressions matter, and a fresh-looking home can generate more interest.

4. Market Aggressively

Use every tool at your disposal: online listings, social media, open houses, and even local ads. The more exposure your property gets, the sooner you’ll find the right buyer or bidder.

5. Stay Flexible

Be open to negotiation and willing to consider different terms, such as flexible closing dates or including appliances. Flexibility can help overcome buyer hesitations and speed up the process.

Don’t Let Market Conditions Stall Your Plans

Time is money. There’s a good chance you’ll benefit from a property auction. Whether you’re ready to retire, start a new job, or just want to move closer to your loved ones, there are ways to prevent a slow market from holding you back. Auctions, expert guidance, and a proactive selling strategy can help you sell your home quickly and be done with it—so you can focus on your next chapter.

Contact the Auctioneers at Cruikshank Realty, Inc.

If you’re considering selling your property in southeastern Colorado, reach out to Cruikshank Realty Auctioneers for an honest evaluation and personalized advice. They can help you understand your options and provide a springboard to the future, whatever it might be.

Call Cruikshank Realty in Lamar, Colorado today at (719) 336-7802 .

Discover Farms for Sale in Lamar Colorado

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 03:27:00 GMT

Discover Farms for Sale in Lamar Colorado

Opportunities for Family Homes

Discover the farms for sale in Lamar or Prowers County properties in the southeastern corner of Colorado. You might find a simpler lifestyle between beautiful fields and farmland and our welcoming small towns. It is common to find small farms for sale in Colorado, giving new families the chance to start their own agricultural adventures. Or go all in for a larger farm in Cheraw or Holly!

Holly CO

Farming communities offer a peaceful way of life that can be especially appealing to families with young children. Known for their wide-open spaces, friendly neighbors, and opportunities to gain experience and grow, Lamar real estate provides the unique peaceful lifestyle that many families desire. If you are interested in moving to southeastern Colorado, explore Lamar homes and farm properties. Get the key to new possibilities for your family.

Know Lamar’s Farming Communities

Farming is a big part of everyday life in the Arkansas River Valley. If you visit a farming community near Lamar, you’ll notice that life moves at a slower pace. People wave as you drive by, and children play outside without worrying about busy streets.

Many families own land or work in agriculture, growing crops like wheat, corn, and sorghum, or raising cattle. These communities often come together to help each other during planting and harvesting seasons, making it easy to feel like you are part of a big family.

Options for Young Families

Southern Colorado farming communities offer many opportunities for families with young children. Families can buy homes with plenty of space for children to run and play. Some families even own small farms themselves, where their kids can learn about animals, gardening, and responsibility.

For starters, housing is usually more affordable compared to big cities. If you search for houses in Prowers County, you’ll find a variety of options, from cozy homes in town to properties with large yards and open land.

Safety is another big advantage in Prowers County. With less traffic and fewer strangers, parents feel comfortable letting their children explore outside. Neighborhoods are close-knit, and people look out for each other. It’s common for neighbors to become lifelong friends, and for families to gather for picnics, barbecues, and local festivals.

For parents who want their children to grow up surrounded by nature, Lamar is a wonderful choice. Kids can help plant gardens, ride horses, or fish in nearby lakes. There are also many community events, like county fairs and farmers’ markets, where families can meet others and learn more about local traditions.

Learning and Growing Together

Children in Lamar’s farming communities have the chance to learn important life skills from an early age. They can help with chores on the farm, such as feeding animals, planting seeds, or picking vegetables. These experiences teach responsibility, teamwork, and the value of demanding work. Parents say their kids become more independent and confident because of the firsthand learning they get every day.

Schools in the area offer programs that focus on agriculture, science, and technology, preparing children for a variety of future careers. Many students get involved in 4-H clubs and Future Farmers of America, where they can learn about leadership and community service. These programs also give children the chance to compete in local contests and show their projects at fairs.

Community Support and Activities

Farming communities around Lamar are known for their staunch support systems. Churches, schools, community centers, and local organizations often organize events for families, such as pancake breakfasts, holiday celebrations, and sports tournaments. These activities help families bond and make new friends. Parents can also find support from other families who understand the joys and challenges of raising children in a rural setting.

Schools also serve as important centers in these towns. Teachers know their students well, and parents are often involved in school activities. Small class sizes mean that children get more attention from teachers and can build strong friendships with their classmates. Local libraries, parks, and sports teams give kids plenty of chances to be active and learn new things after school.

For families who are new to the area, neighbors are quick to offer help and advice. Whether you need a babysitter, someone to fix a fence, or just a friendly chat, you’ll find people who care in all of Lamar’s small towns.

Why Explore Farms for Sale near Lamar

If you’re looking for a safe, friendly place to raise your family, consider the farming communities around Lamar, Colorado. With affordable homes listed on Lamar, Co Real Estate, great schools, and plenty of opportunities for children to learn and grow, these towns offer a lifestyle that is both rewarding and fulfilling. Whether you are interested in small farms for sale in Lamar or searching for houses in Prowers County, you’ll find that families with young children can truly thrive in this unique part of Colorado.

Ask our Family Farming Realtors

Call (719) 336-7802 to speak to one of the Realtors at Cruikshank Realty . Or stop by our offices on Main Street in Lamar, Colorado. We know the schools, and farming life like the back of our hand. Try us and see!

The Pros and Cons of Land Auctions in Colorado

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 03:22:55 GMT

The Pros and Cons of Land Auctions in Colorado

An overview of land auctions in Colorado considers potential benefits and drawbacks. It all depends on the property and the owner’s situation. For sure, land auctions have become an increasingly popular method for buying and selling parcels in Colorado. Auctions offer a unique alternative to traditional real estate transactions.

Nevertheless, although farm and ranch real estate auctions promise certain benefits, for some they also present notable risks and drawbacks. Below, we explore the most important pros and cons of land auctions in Colorado, presented in order of significance.

Pros of Land Auctions in Colorado

• Transparency and Fair Market Value

Auctions encourage open bidding, allowing the true market value of property or land to emerge. Sellers and buyers alike can see competing offers. This transparency reduces the likelihood of hidden deals or under-the-table arrangements.

• Speed and Efficiency

Land auctions are typically faster than traditional real estate sales. The auction date is set in advance, providing certainty for both buyers and sellers. A defined time limit usually helps to get the transaction completed quickly.

• Competitive Bidding

The auction format can spark competitive bidding, which may drive up the sale price—beneficial for sellers. For buyers, there’s a chance to secure property at a fair price if demand is low, especially in less popular or rural areas.

• Clear Terms and Conditions

Auction properties typically sell with clear terms, reducing ambiguity about specifics in the sale and the timeline for closing.

• Opportunities for Investment

Auctions can offer unique land investment opportunities, including access to Colorado unadvertised farm and ranch properties. Land auctions may include Colorado properties previously unavailable on traditional markets.

Cons of Land Auctions

• Limited Due Diligence Time

Buyers often have limited time to research properties before auction. At times, they may rush. Skipping the inspections and title searches, and other sleuthing around, does increase the risk of unforeseen issues. What problems may surface? How about zoning restrictions, liens, or environmental problems?

• No Guarantee of Purchase Price

For sellers, there is a risk the property will sell for less than expected if bidding is weak or if there are few interested buyers. Reserve prices can help, but not all auctions set a minimum bid.

• Non-Refundable Deposits and Strict Terms

Winning bidders often must pay a non-refundable deposit immediately and they need to adhere to strict payment timelines. Failure to comply can result in the loss of the deposit and the opportunity.

• As-Is Sale Condition

Auctioned land normally sells “as-is,” meaning buyers assume all risks. If problems surface later, buyers must accept responsibility.

• Potential for Overpaying

In the heat of competitive bidding, buyers might exceed their budgets, risking overpayment relative to true market value.

Conclusion

Land auctions in Colorado present both significant opportunities and serious challenges. The process can deliver speed, transparency, and the possibility of favorable deals for both buyers and sellers. However, the risks—especially those related to limited due diligence and the “as-is” nature of most auctions—make careful preparation and a clear understanding of auction terms are essential.

For anyone considering buying or selling ag property at a Colorado auction, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. In fact, careful consideration of personal goals and resources is the key to a successful outcome.

Colorado Auction Companies and Realtors

We can better steer you to the best option after knowing your circumstances. Call Owner/Auctioneer Gene Cruikshank at (719) 336-7802 .

Cruikshank Realty, Inc. offers complete real estate auction services and normal private treaty marketing. We provide expertise on farm and ranch properties. Our guiding principle has always been to respect all customers and clients and match them with the best real estate investment. Licensed in Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico.

How to Prep Farms & Ranches for Sale and Profits

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 03:22:54 GMT

How to Prep Farms & Ranches for Sale and Profits

If you are thinking of marketing ag properties and need to prep farms & ranches for sale in Colorado, Kansas, or nearby states, there’s good news. Demand for agricultural properties is strong. But getting top dollars for your farm or ranch isn’t automatic.

To achieve profitable sales, agricultural real estate needs to be prepared. It’s essential to make your ag property market-ready, whether you’re selling a family legacy or pivoting your business. Here’s how to set the stage for successful, profitable sales.

1. First Impressions Matter: Clean & Declutter

Start with the basics. Clean up your agricultural property. Buyers want to envision themselves running their own operations, not cleaning up someone else’s mess. Take a step back and look over your acreage and improvements.

Clear out old equipment, tools, and trash.

Organize barns, sheds, and shop areas.

Mow fields, bale the hay, and trim up the overgrown trees and brush.

Power wash buildings and clean windows to instantly improve appearance.

Think of it like staging a house—only on a larger, dustier scale. And if a home is included, go to work on it, too.

2. Fix What’s Broken: Address Deferred Maintenance

Even small issues can turn off potential buyers or lower offers. Walk the property with a critical eye:

Patch roof leaks and ensure all doors and gates work properly.

Repair or replace damaged fencing.

Make sure irrigation, wells, and water systems are functional.

Check lighting and electrical systems in barns or other structures.

These fixes show pride in ownership and reduce buyer hesitation.

3. Boost Your Curb Appeal—Yes, Even for Rural Properties

Curb appeal isn’t just for suburban homes. A well-maintained entrance and tidy grounds create a positive emotional response from buyers. How can you boost curb appeal for agricultural properties? Start here.

Grade driveways and clear any debris from access roads.

Repaint worn signage, barns, and outbuildings.

Consider planting flowers or freshening up landscaping near the home.

Each of these projects improves the first impressions. Visual appeal also helps your farm or ranch stand out for online listings and real estate tours. And positive access leads to profitable sales.

4. Gather Key Documents That Build Buyer Trust

Savvy buyers want proof that your agricultural property is what you say it is. Pull together the paperwork to support the value of farm or ranch. For example, pull out these documents:

Land surveys and plat maps

Soil quality reports and crop yields

Water rights and well permits

Conservation plans or FSA records (if applicable)

Equipment lists and recent improvements

Transparency shortens the due diligence process. It may be what you need to justify a higher asking price. So, also list income potential of the Colorado or Kansas real estate as explained next.

5. Highlight Potential Income

If your farm or ranch is a working operation, show it off like a business. You’ll want to include information such as:

Share profit and loss statements or rental income history.

List planted crops and their past performance.

Highlight any specialty markets (e.g., organic, hay production, livestock sales).

Note any passive income streams such as wind/solar leases or hunting access.

Remember, farm and ranch buyers don’t just want land, they want opportunity. Make it easy for them to see the return on investment.

6. Market to the Right Audience with a Pro

There’s much to know about agricultural properties. That’s why you want to work with farm and ranch experts like Cruikshank Realty. Choosing the right real estate partner can make all the difference.

Work with a farm and ranch agent,

A specialist in agricultural or rural property

Who understands land valuation and water rights

With connections to local ag lenders and out-of-state investors

A real estate company using targeted digital marketing to reach the right buyers

Bonus: Farm and ranch real estate agents with drone capabilities and experience with rural listings can make your ag property shine in online listings and during virtual tours.

7. Turn-Key Sells: Make It Easy for Buyers to Say Yes

Our goal is to inspire you to best prepare your farms and ranches for sale. The “how to” is about making your ag properties feel ready to work on or live in from Day One. The fewer to-do projects a buyer sees, the more attractive and profitable selling your farm property becomes.

Keep the outbuildings accessible and equipment neatly stored.

Offer flexible closing dates or include helpful extras (like a working tractor or fuel tanks).

Be ready to answer questions about zoning, taxes, and any future development potential.

Final Thoughts to Prep Farms & Ranches for Sale

Preparing your farm or ranch for sale may take a little time and hard work, but it’s worth it. The right improvements, paperwork, and marketing approach can increase your property’s value and reduce its time on the market.

Want to know what your farm could be worth?  Connect with a rural real estate expert today. Call Farm and Ranch Broker Gene Cruikshank and his team at (719) 336-7802 . Or stop by Cruikshank Realty, Inc., 20 South Main St., Lamar, CO 81052

Streamlined Auctions Simplify Closing Processes

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 03:22:53 GMT

Streamlined Auctions Simplify Closing Processes

To speed up the sale of a property, sellers increasingly opt for property auctions , especially farm and ranch auctions and estate auctions. Real estate auctions Provide definitive time limits. Auctioneers devise simple and efficient terms compared to the unknown aspects of traditional real estate transactions.

Let us take a few minutes to find out why.

Auction Processes

Auctions offer a more streamlined and efficient approach. Credit the clear terms and conditions associated with auctions. These terms lead to smooth and predictable Closings. So, forget the long negotiations. With auctions, you’ll see any back-and-forth negotiations minimized. In fact, the auction company strives to predetermine terms that waive contingencies. They simplify the entire auction transaction, and this speeds up the closing process.

Buyers and Sellers Know the Rules

And because they specify the terms and conditions ahead of the auction date, the bidders and buyers know exactly what they are getting into. For example, Auction Rules may include the following basics:

All bids are final.
Payment due within ___ days.
Items sold “as-is”, no warranties.
Auctioneers may reject bids or cancel the auction at their discretion.
Collection/delivery within ___days of payment.

Auctions Remain Focused

Buyers and sellers stay out of the weeds causing the auction process to remain focused. Both parties save time and money and get a green light to move on to their next ventures. We must agree that the Closings at auctions Have the best record of accomplishment. They are predictable and less stressful than traditional real estate Closings.

Traditional Real Estate Transactions

On the other hand, traditional real estate transactions can be complex and time consuming. The buyer and seller may endure lengthy negotiations. Often, several contingencies need to be sorted out. This puts some real estate transactions in the pending category for an extended time. That’s if you get an offer. Remember the time it takes for listings, showings, marketing, and coming up with buyers. Streamlined auctions find investors and buyers around the world and speed up the closing process.

Colorado Land & Farm Auctions – Brokers

Please call Gene Cruikshank, Broker/President/Auctioneer at Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802 or drop into Cruikshank Realty at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052 .

Experience the excitement of onsite or online land auctions . Specializing in Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales, Management, Auctions, and Exchanges. Licensed in Colorado, Oklahoma, Kansas, and New Mexico.

Auctions: Turn Farms and Ranches into Fast Cash

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 03:09:42 GMT

Auctions: Turn Farms and Ranches into Fast Cash

Auctions can quickly turn a farm or ranch into cash. If you’re retiring, want to repurpose your money, have financial needs or want strategic repositioning, consider the auction format to liquidate farm, ranch, or land assets. Auctions are effective tools to quickly liquidate assets.

Whatever the situation, both individuals and businesses often turn to auction companies for vital solutions.

Quick liquidation offers unparalleled advantages in situations where time is of the essence. For instance, agricultural landowners often turn to farm and ranch auctions instead of traditional real estate listings. Auctions streamline the selling process for their properties. Timely sales eliminate financial drain and opportunity costs associated with maintaining unsold assets.

How Auctions Speed up Cash Results

How can land auctions move sales along? This type of transaction offers a stark contrast to the unpredictability of traditional sales avenues. Auctions speed up the process by providing predefined Timelines and goals.

Streamlined Processes

Another way to speed up the sale is to eliminate the negotiation phase. The auction envelope eliminates extended discussions about price and terms and conditions. These take time and delay outcomes. Land auctions circumvent these hurdles by establishing a competitive environment where prices are set on the spot. The purchase price is determined instantly at the event.

Cash Buyers

Cash buyers bring a unique advantage to farm and ranch auctions. They allow transactions to proceed without traditional delays such as financing contingencies and prolonged approvals. The availability of cash expedites the entire real estate process.

Targeted Marketing

Farm and ranch auctions often draw buyers, including cash buyers and those with secured financing. This significantly speeds up the closing process. Effective auction companies, like Cruikshank Realty in SE Colorado, have deep networks of potential buyers. Their auction teams use specialized marketing strategies to reach buyers who are specially motivated to buy agricultural land. The focused approach attracts A concentrated pool of potential bidders. This reduces the time needed to find interested parties and speeds up the transaction.

Competitive Bidding

In addition, land auctions attract motivated buyers, often building a highly competitive environment. The bidding process can drive the price up period. As you can imagine, the sellers benefit from the urgency inherent in the auction format.

Summarizing: Auctions Help Liquidate Land

Auctions can be an extremely effective tool for quickly liquidating assets. By transforming tangible or intangible assets into immediate cash, auctions can provide the flexibility landowners need to navigate pressing obligations or to move on to new opportunities.

Auctions are dynamic processes shaped by a variety of factors. These include fixed timelines, streamlined processes, targeted marketing, and the chosen method of sale. Rapid liquidation can be crucial for farmers and ranchers.

Auction Companies SE Colorado

Interview Auctioneer Gene Cruikshank at 719-336-7802 .

Cruikshank Realty, Inc., offers 40 years of experience in all types of real estate transactions and auction services. Cruikshank Realty boasts a large client base throughout the United States and beyond. Gene holds licenses in Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico.

Find your Niche in SE Colorado with Lamar Homes

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 03:09:39 GMT

Find your Niche in SE Colorado with Lamar Homes

Explore Lamar homes for sale that could check all the boxes for you. As your family grows, so have home prices in the big cities. Never fear. Nestled in the rolling prairies and shimmering sunlit landscapes of southeastern Colorado, Lamar offers a unique blend of rural charm and modern convenience. The town beckons those seeking a peaceful retreat without sacrificing the amenities required for a comfortable lifestyle. This agricultural community welcomes you. Find your niche in southeastern Colorado.

If you work from home or commute once a week, you can be far from the hustle bustle of metropolitan life. You’ll have an opportunity to get close to the land and a quality lifestyle.

Lamar Homes for Sale

Cruikshank Realty, Inc. in Lamar features a beautiful 5- bedroom/3-bath ranch home with 3,428 square feet of living area. The listing price for 812 Willow Valley Drive, Lamar, Colorado 81052 is $450,000, a dream come true for many homebuyers. Listing ID #231397. And we can show you smaller homes for sale, too.

Details for 5-Bedroom Home in Lamar CO

Built in 1985, the well-cared-for home lies in a desirable established neighborhood on the edge of city limits. Here you’ll easily get outside to nearby facilities: a park, tennis courts, public swimming pool, a walking and biking path, and a frisbee golf course.

The spacious home sits on a sizable lot of 0.303 acres. You will love the beautiful yards and gardens. Inside are a wealth of pleasant features. A grand foyer, French doors, and formal living room provide the backdrop for a variety of gatherings. There’s space for family, guests, and an office. This home features a big open kitchen with beautiful countertops and abundant cabinets. It’s comfortable, livable.

Why Lamar in Southeastern Colorado?

Why relocate to Lamar, Colorado? What quality of life can you expect in southeastern Colorado?

Affordable cost of living. The cost for housing, transportation, utilities, and health care dash among other things, are 17% lower than the national average.

Low crime rate. The 35.4 score for safety includes property crime and little violent crime.

Outdoor activities and community. The city offers a variety of community resources. These include Parks and Recreation as well as shopping centers and restaurants. And Lamar, as county seat, offers residents the business resources they need.

Making SE Colorado your Home

As the largest town in Prowers County, Lamar is a compelling choice because of the low cost, safe, and community-oriented lifestyle. Find camaraderie hunting, fishing, sporting events, or hiking. Find your own niche. Or travel easily. Lamar lies at a highway and Amtrak crossroads in the Arkansas River Valley. Here, the open skies and boundless horizons provide a canvas for dreams, and the community’s warm embrace fosters a sense of belonging.

Colorado Realtors – Lamar Homes

Cruikshank Realty, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. Call the office at (719) 336-7802 . Tell us your goals and we’ll search for southeastern Colorado properties to show you.

How Real Estate Auctions Allow Sellers more Control

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 03:09:38 GMT

How Real Estate Auctions Allow Sellers more Control

Selling farms and ranches at real estate auctions gives the Sellers more control. You decide the set up. Sellers decide the dates and places for the auctions, how to market, and the minimal acceptable bid. In addition to deciding on the terms and conditions, the Seller also chooses the auctioneer!

This higher level of control empowers sellers to make informed decisions. Sellers also steer the event to align with their overall goals.

Setting Your Own Terms

By auctioning their properties, Sellers keep a significant degree of control over the sale process. They work with their auction companies to set up specific terms for auction sales. They decide the closing dates, they decide the financing requirements, they might formulate contingencies.

For example, you figure out the smallest acceptable bid for your property. This is the reserve price. By setting a reserve price, you protect your investment and ensure that the sale price meets your expectations. The Auctioneer manages the process as the bids come in. However, the Seller decides whether to accept the highest bid. The Seller has the final say.

Greater Control of Real Estate Auctions

So, with Land Auctions, you decide the timelines. Do you need to get out from under the carrying costs of an existing farm or ranch property? Have you inherited acreage and its holding expenses? Consider options for real estate auctions at Cruikshank Realty, Inc. in Lamar, Colorado.

Quickly Eliminate Carrying Costs

All real estate transactions come with carrying costs. What are some carrying costs? Think of the expenses incurred because of owning or holding an asset. In real estate these carrying charges include fees for owning a property, fees such as loan payments.

And they can add up when it comes to large acreage properties . Consider the following expenses:

Property taxes
Mortgage payments
Insurance
Utilities
Livestock
Property management or employee salaries
Regular maintenance

When property owners need to offload those carrying costs quickly, then it is time to consider real estate auctions. The Sellers will have control over the time for any land auction.

Auctioneers and Auction Companies

In southeastern Colorado, Cruikshank Realty, Inc., brings you 40 years of experience in real estate auction services and traditional transactions. Interview Auctioneer Gene Cruikshank at 719-336-7802 .

Our Auction Company is well versed in all types of transactions and we sustain a large client base that spans the United States and beyond. Gene holds licenses in Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico.

Revive the Walsenburg Real Estate Market

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 03:09:35 GMT

Revive the Walsenburg Real Estate Market

Walsenburg real estate sits on the eastern slope of the Sangre de Cristo, right in the palm of Spanish Peaks Country. Mining once made Walsenburg thrive and the local Walsenburg real estate includes timeless homes to show it.

The area leads us through picturesque scenery. Set at Interstate 25 and Highways 160 and 10, Walsenburg offers easy access to the entire Front Range. Take the Highway of Legends for a picturesque tour. Go either south or northwest for Rocky Mountain skiing. To the agricultural east, find plenty of farms and ranches.

Old Time Walsenburg Colorado

Walsenburg once served as the hub of the coal and steel production in the western states. This brought wealth to the community. Along with owners, Union steel laborers and coal miners lived here. Native tribes, after the huge, ancient geological changes along the front range, frequented the area. See the Huerfano Tourism website to learn about some real characters in the Old West who lived here.

Today in Walsenburg

That was then. Today Walsenburg eagerly plans anew. Its excellent location and strong bones give it the qualities of small town America that buyers cherish so much. Buy Walsenburg property for a primary residence or a second home and take frequent hikes to Chara and La Veta. Stroll with your friends and guests into the mountains or through town. Take in a round of golf and share local gems with fellow golfers.

Buy Walsenburg Real Estate

Here’s an opportunity to invest in a home in Walsenburg, Colorado. And you’ll have room for horses and farming.

Listing ID: 31320c1742473419176
Acreage: 11.66 total (Lot 1: 5.31 acres and Lot 2: 6.35 acres)
Price: $940,000

Located in Pinon Hills Estate #1, the 3 bed/4 bath home sits on 11.66 acres in between 6200 and 7000 foot elevations. Olney Sandy loam and Progresso Sando loam soils over shale and sandstone with some outcroppings give your property interest and possibilities.

You’ll have 2,070 square feet of living space plus a big 459 foot deck and more. And the detached garage and shop of 1280 square feet features two loft overhead doors, a walk door, electricity and water with plumbing stubbed-in and a radiant-heat floor. You’ll love the native grasses and pinon and juniper trees.

Southeast Colorado Realtors – Reviving Walsenburg

For more information, call Cruikshank Realty, Inc. on (719) 336.7802 . We’re at 20 South Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052 with representatives in Walsenburg.

Land Auctions Spur Competitive Bidding for Best Return

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 03:09:34 GMT

Land Auctions Spur Competitive Bidding for Best Return

Selling farms or ranches at land auctions adds potential for competitive bidding. Whereas a fixed price real estate listing can stagnate, the dynamic environment of farm and ranch auctions brings out competing Buyers. Competition drives the final sale price up. This is one of the most compelling advantages of land auctions.

Potential for Higher Price

Wouldn’t it be nice to receive the true market value for your agricultural real estate? You might want a quick sale to get on with your life and you can get there, but land auctions offer the potential for a higher sales price. Auctions bring in a large pool of qualified Buyers to benefit you. The dynamic auction pricing mechanism helps tap into the true market value of your farm or ranch.

Desirable Properties Enjoy Competition

Auctions are exciting and filled with a sense of urgency. When you sell a unique or highly desirable farm and ranch property, the competitive atmosphere can be particularly beneficial. How so? Potential Buyers see others vying for the same land. The motivated bidders may place higher bids than they initially intended to bid. The result can be an auction sale price that significantly exceeds the return produced by a traditional listing.

Transparent Auction Process

By choosing the auction method to sell your farm or ranch property, you can unlock the true market value. See how the power of competitive bidding can harness positive results. The open bidding system ensures a fair and equitable process. Every bidder is aware of the current high bid. Because it’s transparent, the auction process creates compelling chemistry between participants. At the same time, Sellers benefit by having the ability to maximize return on investment.

More Benefits of Land Auctions

Once you farmers and ranchers start digging, you’ll find the auction method interesting. It’s a prime way to buy or sell farm and ranch real estate. Could any of these additional factors convince you to place a bid or sell land and assets with the exciting auction tools available to you today?

We’ll be discussing additional benefits in this forum, including:

Faster sales process
Control over the sale
Lower carrying costs
Streamlined transaction
Sell as-is
No contingencies
Buyer’s premium
Options for auction format
Due diligence
Competitive Bids at Land Auctions

Auctions enhance the competitive spirit of bidders and often maximize the Seller’s return on investment. Farmers and ranchers appreciate the transparent processes. Farm and ranch properties at auction seem to enhance the camaraderie and good faith of Buyers and Sellers alike.

Auctioneers Lamar Colorado

Find out what, when, where, and how you can benefit from an auction of your farm, land, ranch, and equipment. Cruikshank Realty, Inc. in Lamar, Colorado, offers complete real estate auction services. Call owner/auctioneer Gene Cruikshank today at (719) 336-7802 .

Licensed in Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico

Auction Sales Help in Agriculture Where Time is Money

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 03:09:32 GMT

Auction Sales Help in Agriculture Where Time is Money

Is time your most valuable commodity? Think about how auction sales save time and money. In contrast to traditional real estate transactions, auctions act like microwaves. The farm and ranch community especially enjoy the fast auction sales process. They know time is money.

Farmers and Ranchers Like How Auction Sales Help

It’s true that a traditional real estate listing may languish on the market for months or years. Who wants to wait around? If a farmer wants to retire, to consolidate land holdings, or to capitalize on emerging market opportunities, waiting time can be costly. However, land auction sales can speed up the pace to put them quickly where they’d rather be. Yes, time is money for farmers and ranchers.

Predictable Auction Rules and Timelines

Helping with the acceleration, auctions create rules and predictable timelines that compel buyers to make decisions. For example, buyers need to submit bids at specific times, online or in person, taking initiative and action. Potential buyers feel that sense of urgency and become focused. Quicker sales free Sellers to move on with their goals. In fact, all parties can manage their resources more efficiently.

Generating Urgent Interest

Farmers and ranchers often opt for the concentrated marketing efforts before their auctions. Reputable auction firms notify their mailing lists and other investors of the upcoming event. The auction company spells out the specific details that buyers need to make good decisions. Marketing efforts show property details such as property lines to water rights, soil content, improvements, equipment, and photos.

More Benefits of Auctions for Farm and Ranch Properties

Buyers and sellers gravitate towards auctions for farm and ranch properties for many reasons. Stay tuned for more auction discussions. We’ve got lots to explain. Think about other benefits such as:

Competitive bidding
Transparent and fair process
Control over the sale
Carrying costs lower
Potential for higher price
Streamlined transaction
AS-IS sale
Targeted marketing
No contingencies
Buyer’s premium
Auction format options
Due diligence
Auction day excitement

Conclusion – Auctioning Farms & Ranches

In the agricultural world, auction formats add great flexibility and value to the lives of farmers and ranchers. Owners consider time valuable. Farmers and ranchers use auctions to sell their farm and ranch properties more quickly.

Auctioneers – SE Colorado

Call Cruikshank Realty, Inc. Owner/Auctioneer Gene Cruikshank at (719) 336-7802 . Cruikshank Realty, Inc. offers complete real estate auction services and normal private treaty marketing. Licensed in Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico.

We keep client and customer bases throughout the United States. Our guiding principle has always been to respect all customers and clients and match them with the best real estate investment.

Auction – 5000 Head Sow Unit in Bent County

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 03:09:31 GMT

5,000 Head Sow Unit 460 A M/L Sale Method—Bid Process Bent County, CO

Available for Bid

Bids due by March 5th, 2025.

The Bid Process is Outlined on 2nd Page of the attached Auction Brochure.

Here is the Bid Form.

Available for Bid
Bids due by March 5, 2025, at 3 PM CST.
Property includes a 5000 head sow farm on 460 acres.
Historical operating inventory is approximately 5000.
Contact agents Ben Isaacson or Dean Schott for more information.

Property Highlights
Located in Bent County, Colorado, built in 1998.
Great isolation with the nearest pig 12 miles away, ideal for genetic multiplication.
Open pen gestation compliant; potential for upgrades.
Features an evaporative lagoon and an existing methane digester.

Bidding Process
Bids accepted “as-is” and “where-is.”
Seller can accept, negotiate, or reject bids.
Closing will occur within 45 days of acceptance.

Terms and Conditions
5% of the purchase price required from the successful bidder.
Buyers must sign a Real Estate Sales Agreement.
Sale subject to easements and restrictions; buyers assume post-closing expenses.

Sow Farm Site Layout & Overview 
Gestation: Four barns with 4416 spaces.
Farrowing: Four barns with 768 crates.
Manure handling includes a three-stage system with an evaporative lagoon.

Water and Other Items
Water rights via Fort Bent “Ditch Rights” and three wells.
Ranch-style dwelling with four bedrooms and two bathrooms included.
Features septic systems, LP tanks, and standby generators.

Major Updates
Updates include flooring, cool cell infrastructure, and electrical upgrades.
Partial roof and ceiling replacements throughout the site.

Click for Brochure | Pictures | Documents | Bid Form

Tis the Season to Invest: SE Colorado Farm in Holly CO

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 02:33:35 GMT

Tis the Season to Invest: SE Colorado Farm in Holly CO

Invest in a 478.78-acre SE Colorado farm . This Holly CO property features upgraded irrigation, good soil, and easy access. Irrigated and ready for you to start planting soon.

Melcher Farm , one of the cleanest farms in the area, is noxious weed free. Present owners tout the excellent soils and high yields from this beautiful farm property. Truly a spectacular holly-day gift to the next owner!

Location of Colorado Farm in Holly

The Melcher irrigated farm for sale lies south of Holly, Colorado. From our office in Lamar, we drive east for 30 minutes to Holly, turning south on State Highway 89. Yes, it lies in Colorado, close to the Kansas border. This lush farmland enjoys year round access via county-maintained roads.

Irrigation and Power

Three sides of the farm feature 3-phase power. In addition, the engineered irrigation pumps run on natural gas and an underground pipeline system connects all the wells into a central system. Take a few minutes to study the details on this listing page for Melcher Irrigated Farm for Sale .

Overview SE Colorado Farm for Sale

Address: State Highway 89, Holly, CO 81047
Listing ID: 205546
Acreage: 478.78 deeded acres
Square feet: 20,855,657
Price: $1.6 million reduced from $1.9 million)
2021 taxes: $1619.14
Minerals: 100% all seller’s interest
Soil and Crop history

Over half the soil is Richfield silt loam and 41% is Ulysses silt loam. Throw in a bit of Colby silt loam, and You’ll see this investment in a Colorado farm as successful. Make it a homestead or a family farm. Grow crops to feed local communities. With all that highway access, can open convenient roadside stands. Although the history of crop yields on dry land and irrigated portions of the farm show proven crop yield for corn, wheat, grain sorghum, and sunflowers, the Melcher irrigated farm for sale offers new and creative possibilities.

Barn Raising?

If you’re thinking of adding animals and building a home on this southeastern Colorado farm, make it easy on yourself. Contact Lester Buildings or Morton to find out about their customized, high-quality storage barns and homes.

Companies partnering with Lester design and order custom designed barn and house kits as simple or fancy as you like. These pole barns cut the time required for building. Or take your time. Take the option for a traditional stick built home, one as lush as this the golden green fields on the farm property.

Farm and Ranch Brokers SE Colorado Farm

Give our farm and ranch brokers a call at Cruikshank Realty, Inc. to find out the possibilities of putting this SE Colorado farm into your portfolio. Call Gene Cruikshank at (719) 336-7802 or come to our office at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052 .

Specializing in Residential, Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales , Management, Auctions, and Exchanges.

Lamar CO Land – Commercial and Residential

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 02:33:33 GMT

Lamar CO Land – Commercial and Residential

Look for Lamar CO land to bypass the soaring prices of vacant land in the suburbs. Lamar lies at a crossroads in Prowers County. Highways 287 and 385 travel north, south, east, and west into America. A friendly place in the center of the nation, Lamar is a perfect place to open a business, settle, raise a family or retire.

Commercial and Residential Vacant Lots for Sale

Are you starting a business or heading up an organization? Ask us about a set of multi-use lots in Lamar. These have good visibility. Or consider a vacant lot for a residence outside of the city. Either way, the slower pace of Southeastern Colorado could warm and invigorate your heart.

Multi-Use Vacant Lots in Lamar

Cruikshank Realty, Inc. and Tress Gadash, Associate Broker, present 13 individual lots zoned I-1. Priced at $400,00 total, these vacant parcels range in size from 12,499 square feet to 72,578 square feet. City utilities are available.

How might this land be used? Buyers could consider a combination of service and commercial uses, accessory uses, or special right uses such as daycare and churches. They might be preferred locations for light fabrication or manufacturing as well as warehousing. Some of the parcels could be developed for government use and quasi government oversight, including good spots for parks and parking lots.

1-Acre Lots of Lamar CO Land

Alternatively, Cruikshank Realty offers a 1.07 acre lot in the countryside outside Lamar. Here Buyers might build a stick home or relocate quickly using a newer modular home. Amanda Spitz, Associate Broker, in Lamar will field questions on this Lamar property. Priced at $30,000, the Lamar CO land sits at 32 Rodeo Drive, Lamar, Colorado 81052. Listing ID 183244.

Land Brokers Lamar Colorado

Contact us at Cruikshank Realty, Inc at 20 S Main St. Lamar, Colorado 81052 . Or call Cruikshank Realty, Inc. today (719) 336-7802.

Land Broker Gene Cruikshank opened his real estate company in Lamar in the 1980s. Specializing in Farm and Ranch transactions , Gene came from an agricultural background. He has been involved in all types of transactions and holds licenses in Colorado and neighboring states. The company also specializes in the Residential Market, buying and selling homes. Land Broker Member. Realtors’ Land Institute.

Own Colorado Property in Beulah Valley

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 02:33:32 GMT

Own Colorado Property in Beulah Valley

Relax in a Colorado property in Beulah Valley. You can own a hobby farm southwest of Pueblo. It’s set up with a 4-bedroom home and outbuildings on 8.77 acres. Discover a quieter lifestyle amidst the tall pine trees and scenic views with Beulah only 5 minutes from home.

Here in Pueblo County, residents enjoy proximity to Interstate 25 and cosmopolitan and business amenities in Denver, Colorado Springs, and Pueblo (15 miles). The regional airports, Denver International Airport, and Amtrak connections offer easy access to other destinations. School District 70 serves students living in the area.

Address: 7787 Highway 78, Beulah, CO 81032
Listing ID: #227815
Price: $400,000

Details – Hobby Farm for Sale in Beulah

As for this hobby farm, it features plenty of spaces to raise a family and animals. Along with several outbuildings, fenced areas, and pastureland, the property features 1,804 square feet of finished living area on three levels with four bedrooms and two bathrooms. The comfortable layout provides wonderful light.

The Beulah home for sale has several inviting attributes. The top floor includes a kitchen and living room—big enough for many activities. It opens to a porch and the fenced backyard where captivating views await. Another level offers big windows, a bedroom, bath, and a cozy sitting room with a patio entrance to the yard. Two additional bedrooms and a full bath make up the lower level.

And outside improvements make this turnkey. Just bring your chickens, horses, goats, and llamas. You’ll enjoy three horse stalls and a large barn, a work area, storage area, hobby area, tool shed, loading shed, RV parking and a carport.

Colorado Property in Beulah Valley

Beulah Colorado real estate lies at 6381 foot elevations in the Rocky Mountain foothills. The Wet Mountains to the west, Mt. Signal to the south and southeast, and a ridge along the north and east create natural boundaries for the entire Beulah Valley. Creeks supply water. North Creek, Middle Creek, Squirrel Creek, and South Creek merge on the east side of Beulah Valley into the St. Charles River and the Arkansas River.

Historic Beulah Colorado

The community forged its destiny during the mining rush of the mid-1800s. First settled in 1862 and named after a nefarious fellow, the town later agreed to change the name to Beulah to overcome the Wild Western past. Some settlers started farms to grow good and this continues to be zoned AG.

Farm and Ranch Properties in Southern Colorado

Learn more about farms and ranches in Colorado. Call Cruikshank Realty (719) 336-7802 . Schedule an appointment or come by our office at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. Specializing in Residential, Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales , Management, Auctions, and Exchanges.

How Do I Buy a House?

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 02:33:30 GMT

How Do I Buy a House?

If you want to buy a house in the next year, be sure to put first things first. Get your finances in order, find a home, and close. It’s always fun to see Colorado homes for sale online and to casually drop into an Open House. But you might be disappointed if that home sells before you get enough money saved. Who knows what houses will be for sale next year when you are ready to buy!

You will be happy to know that homes for sale in Southeastern Colorado come with modest prices. You might begin shopping homes in Lamar, for example, by driving around the neighborhoods. Do you want to be in town, near a school or park? Do you want a property for sale with acreage? Try to decide on a few preferable neighborhoods.

Getting Your Finances Ready to Buy a House

In buying a home, you’re making an important investment. Many first-time buyers experience dismay as they learn exactly how much cash they need. Wishful thoughts of finding their dream homes dissipate quickly. And practical realities start taking hold. Buyers often have “wants” and dreams. Be prepared to modify those dreams after finding out how much cash will be needed to acquire a home in Colorado or elsewhere.

Traditionally, buyers save 20 percent of the purchase price of a home to use for a down payment. Now lenders may entice you with a lower down payment. That can be a problem if the economy changes. You might find yourself underwater, not being able to sell the home for the amount you still owe. So, the larger the down payment, the better.

In summation, you will need cash on hand for several purposes, including:

A down payment or a larger down payment
A home inspection
Closing costs
Furniture and appliances
Moving

Getting Approved for a Home Mortgage

Visit lenders and ask for the best, most comfortable home loan options for you. As a rule of thumb, the more money you put down, the better deal you will find in a mortgage. In addition, you’ll end up paying much less interest over the life of the loan. Decide which mortgage package works better for you, get an approved price range, and ask for a pre-approval letter.

Use a Reputable Realtor

Collaborate with a real estate agent after interviewing experts in the area. A reputable Realtor provides invaluable assistance through the homebuying journey. Your Realtor will scope out home listings to fit your goals. In addition, these professionals network. They often know of homes that will be coming onto the market in the future. They help you make purchase offers and negotiate. When it’s time for closing, after signing on many dotted lines, your real estate agent will make certain you’ve received everything you anticipate in the transaction.

Real Estate Companies in Southeast Colorado

Cruikshank Realty is located at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. We are here to help you through the steps to buy a home. Call the real estate professionals at Cruikshank Realty (719) 336-7802 .

Agricultural Real Estate with New Reinke Sprinklers

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 01:34:09 GMT

Agricultural Real Estate with New Reinke Sprinklers

Invest in agricultural real estate in Cheraw, Colorado. Located in a strong cattle-feeding economy, this SE Colorado farm for sale sits in the Arkansas Valley North of La Junta, Colorado. You just might fall in love the two parcels of the 303.4-acre Jerry Bay Farm. ( See property listing .)

Farm improvements include a new Reinke Sprinkler System with seven towers to support crop production and grazing potential. The well-maintained operation also offers hunting options and a 160-acre State Grazing Lease.

Address: 34510 County Rd KK, Cheraw, Otero County, CO

Acreage: 303.4 acres
Tract #1 spans most of Section 27 (NE 1/4) plus homesite
Tract #2 covers most of Section 33 (NE 1/4)
Price: $1,350,000

Excellent Water Resources

Long ago, the operations at Jerry Bay farm began obtaining significant water allocations. Already in place are 272 shares of Holbrook Mutual Irrigation Canal. Tract# 1 holds 145 shares of the Holbrook allocation and Tract #2 holds 127 shares of the allocation. This water supply supports 244.8 acres of prime cropland.

Along with a hay shed, an East End Municipal Water Tap sits on a 6-acre section. This could be a wonderful residential building site.

Reinke Sprinkler System

Along with soil content, productivity depends on the water access. The new 2023 Reinke Sprinkler System installed on Tract #1 at the Jerry Bay Farm reaches approximately 125 acres. It features an excellent center pivot irrigation, Model #2065, improving the agricultural capability of this beautiful Colorado farm. The remaining acreage of the farm ground is under flood irrigation on Tract #2.

Specialty Crops – Agricultural Real Estate

The Jerry Bay Farm produces a variety of crops: alfalfa, corn, forage sorghum, triticale, watermelons, cantaloupes. Most recently, the management positioned this successful Colorado farm to oversee many crops and more hay production, including alfalfa and forage sorghum hay.

You can see how good water resources become valuable for agricultural real estate in southeastern Colorado. Add in the predominant Class I and Class II soils, including Nepesta clay loam, Numa clay loam, Korman and Neesopah loams, and Rocky Ford silty loam.

Having established a productive record, the owners of this Colorado farm confidently look to pass their enterprise to the new buyers.

Cruikshank Realty, Inc. – Farm & Ranch Brokers

For details and more information, please call Joe Bush at Cruikshank Realty, Inc, on (719) 336-7802 . Schedule an appointment or come by our office at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052.

Broker/Owner Gene Cruikshank holds licenses in Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. Specializing in Residential, Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales , Management, Auctions, and Exchanges. Let Gene know if he can help you with your unique transaction needs.

SE Colorado Real Estate – Life in Prowers County

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 01:34:08 GMT

SE Colorado Real Estate – Life in Prowers County

Prowers County, Colorado sits in the High Prairie in southeastern Colorado . Over time, travelers passed through regularly as several highways lead them to places around Colorado and Kansas and throughout the nation. Throughout Prowers County, the farms and ranches, fields and small towns all lend a friendly sense of place — and lots of open space.

That’s why we love buying and selling real estate here in southeastern Colorado. Nudged up to the eastern edge of the state, Prowers County forms a pinnacle hub in the Great High Prairie. It’s 1,644 square miles at average 3600-foot elevations enriches the country lifestyle. Fields of horses and sheep, farms and rural properties stretch between the small towns.

Lamar – Prowers County Seat

Lamar, Colorado holds down the seat of Prowers County, it’s an interesting southeastern Colorado town. It has a semi-suburban feel with a variety of cultures, churches, good restaurants and bars, parks, and green spaces.

Located in about the middle, this community often welcomes travelers and tourists. For instance, in the 1850s, pioneers, Native Americans, and adventurers and explorers made their way through here to cross the nation. Reminders include the Madonna of the Trail Monument and the Camp Amache National Historic Landmark. Although many trod the Santa Fe trail, in modern times vehicles, trains, and planes get them here. Once in Lamar, they may visit the museum to learn more of the rich past.

Lamar Real Estate

The Lamar community of 7600 residents appreciates the bit of outside influence. Newcomers appreciate the livability of Lamar, too. Her decent cost of living, low crime rates, and good education, low home values and low mortgages help make relocation to Lamar more pleasant. Our historic downtown, fabulous public swimming pool, and surreal sunsets may catch your fancy. Ask us about real estate to fit your goals and aspirations.

The State of Colorado

The sunny State of Colorado holds rank as the highest in the nation, average elevation is 6800 feet. We have beauty, recreation, a bustling economy, lots of schools, and a healthy lifestyle. From Prowers County, the distinctive features such as hot springs, mines, ski hills, and the Denver mint await our long weekend trips.

Although Colorado gets a mixture of challenging weather patterns, Prowers County enjoys a slightly milder climate. So too with the cost of living. It’s 105.2 in the state but lower in southeastern Colorado where the housing costs are manageable. And Lamar may not offer glitzy craft beer hangouts but we top the rest with our beautiful land and open fields of waving grains.

Economic Strategy

Herald the entrepreneur. Along with the new residents come new businesses and jobs in Prowers County. Organized initiatives encourage economic development in the county and throughout Southern Colorado.

The 2021- 2026 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy encourages a locally based, regionally driven economic development planning process. Small businesses can check out the Southeast Colorado Business Retention Expansion and Attraction Program, the Southeast Colorado Small Business Development Center, and the Southeast Colorado Enterprise Development Group—among other programs.

Transportation Arteries

Major highways crisscross the county: US Hwy. 50, 287, 385, and 400. State highways 89 and 196 along with the American Discovery Trail and the Santa Fe Trail National Scenic Byway. Amtrak train service provides passenger train service at the Lamar station, where you can learn about the railroads heyday and see old train cars on display.

Unusual Aspects of Prowers County

Ten miles southeast of Lamar lies a unique antipode of the Indian Ocean island of Ile Amsterdam and LaRoche Godon, with an antipode of 37.8332° N. Prowers County also accommodates the Colorado Green Wind Power Project.

Schools and Health Care

Four public school districts serve the students in Prowers county along with Lamar Community College period. Also, Lamar is home to a critical access hospital and a Level 4 trauma center that serves Prowers County.

Prowers County Realtors in SE Colorado

Relocate to Prowers County. Call Cruikshank Realty (719) 336-7802 . Schedule an appointment or come by our office at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. Specializing in Residential, Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales , Management, Auctions, and Exchanges.

Cruikshank Realty, Inc. – Best Realtors in SE Colorado

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 01:34:07 GMT

Cruikshank Realty, Inc. – Best Realtors in SE Colorado

A few decades ago, after studying agriculture and marketing, Gene Cruikshank and his young wife established roots in Lamar, Colorado. They opened Cruikshank Realty, now a full-service farm & ranch brokerage with a bustling residential wing. Today, the real estate company offers services across the wide open fields of the High Plains from Colorado into surrounding states of Kansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico.

Real Estate Listings Across SE Colorado

Right here in the Pueblo region of southeastern Colorado, our listings span from east to west through Prowers, Bent, Otero, Pueblo, Huerfano, and Alamosa counties. We currently list farms, ranches, acreage, and country homes. We also sell homes on lots in small towns like Lamar and commercial operations. Even so, our versatile agents show our Buyers the best real estate listings that fit their objectives.

Best Realtors in SE Colorado – Our Team

At any given time, clients can feel comfortable buying and selling real estate through the sharp but friendly agents at Cruikshank Realty. Our team melds our experience and skills for the best results. So, we say we are the Best Realtors in SE Colorado. Of course. But why? Here we are!

Gene Cruikshank, President and Broker

An army veteran and farmer, Gene lends practical expertise to every project we see here. After college he gained an array of skill sets. These include affiliation with the Realtors Land Institute, professional appraising in land, minerals, and water. Presently, Gene holds licenses in Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. The governor appointed Gene to the Arkansas River Coordination Committee and he is an Accredited Land Consultant.

John Stroh II ALC

John grew up on a ranch, owned a livestock operation (40 years!), and eventually focused on agricultural property management services. His company served cattle and livestock ranches from SE to NW Colorado. During this time, John racked up a list of skillsets, including appraisals, consulting, and real estate brokerage. From his offices in Walsenburg, John Stroh helps Cruikshank Realty’s moniker as one of the Best Realtors in SE Colorado.

Joe Bush

A graduate in Agronomy and Animal Science, Joe Bush earned his stars dealing with production agriculture in Southern Texas. Ask him about crops and learn a lot. But rely on his expertise in agriculture, farming, and ranch land in the Colorado real estate market.

Tress Gadash

Tress Gadash is a boon to our Farm and Ranch Real Estate Division at Cruikshank Realty, Tress offers expertise in agricultural and direct ranch land management including cattle care. He’s enthusiastic and effective.

Amanda Spitz

Long-time Lamar resident Amanda Spitz spent 15 years teaching students in the Lamar School District, garnering a solid work ethic and dedication to integrity. She’s friendly and efficient, readily adopting new skills to provide high-quality service in the real estate industry.

Sharon Cruikshank, Owner

Sharon Cruikshank owns Cruikshank Realty, Inc. and spreads her talents into every area. To help clients reach their real estate goals, Sharon meets each one to get to know their objectives. As the company’s client and customer base stretches across the USA, Sharon helps maintain these networks.

Real Estate Agents in SE Colorado

For more information, please call Cruikshank Realty (719) 336-7802 . Schedule an appointment or come by our office at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. Specializing in Residential, Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales , Management, Auctions, and Exchanges.

Getaway Ranchland in Southern Colorado

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 01:34:06 GMT

Getaway Ranchland in Southern Colorado

Build your getaway 5 miles northwest of Walsenburg on a parcel of the Gordon Ranch. Far enough from the crowd and close enough for convenience, this Huerfano County ranchland features layers of fantastic views.

Peaceful beauty extends from the Spanish Peaks to the western end of Greenhorn Mountain. Pikes Peak highlights the northern vista with Fishers Peak to the south. All this exceptional scenery surrounds the 1,709,294 square-foot ranch—most especially from the top of the steep bluff.

New Rural Subdivision

Once part of the large Gordon Ranch , this Southern Colorado property for sale now sits in a new rural subdivision that allows for livestock and grazing. The property includes 825.43 feet of frontage. It faces eastward.

Grazing the Terrain

Livestock make their way along the rolling hills and rock outcroppings. In addition, elk, deer, and antelope enjoy wandering through the pristine land. Smartly, the owners established a grazing lease. Leases are common in this agricultural community. The lease helps keep the property taxes low. In 2023, taxes assessed for Parcel #16284 (known as Lot #4) were 19.63.

Improvements

In addition to establishing grazing rights, the seller has made significant improvements. Helpful features include:

Graveled access road
Leveled, graveled pad area (200’ x 300’) for a shop.
Excavation and leveling around the property.
Extensive cleanup of debris from the old school building
Northend fencing.
Outbuildings
Cistern
Septic tank, hook up installed.

History of the Area

Gordon Ranch, including this 39.24-acre parcel, was once owned by a coal mine. It features existing mines. Hikers occasionally discover items of historical significance such as artifacts. In modern times, the Huerfano County schools serve students living in this area near Walsenburg, Colorado.

Directions

Take Colorado State Highway 69 northwest from Walsenburg to County Road 527W and then County Road 524. Turn north. In about 3/8 miles, the entrance to the ranch will be on the west.

Brokers – Ranchland in Southern Colorado

Please call Cruikshank Realty, Inc. at (719) 336-7802 for more information about this investment.

Daytrips from a New Home in Lamar

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 01:34:05 GMT

Daytrips from a New Home in Lamar

We’re thinking of moving to a new home in Lamar , Colorado. After we get settled, we plan to go on daytrips and see the region. There are so many interesting small towns within two hours or so. Of course, we could start in Colorado. But the Kansas border is about 20 minutes east of Lamar. And we could quickly cross the borders of Oklahoma, Texas, and New Mexico also.

Daytrips from Lamar Homes

What day trips could we add to our summer calendar? Let’s start with Kansas, the Sunflower State. What’s there to see in Kansas? Lots of wide-open places that pioneers and explorers trod 150 years ago, along with Native American tribes.

The Santa Fe trail went through here. How about we start with Fort Dodge? It takes about 2 1/2 hours to get there. Now called Dodge City, a dinner theater and the Old West décor in Downtown Dodge City sounds fun. Or next fall we’ll plan a couple of days to go on the Dodge City Exotic Hunt. We won’t need licenses or permits. We’d love to see the cowboy hats at Longs Inc.

According to the travelks.com website, we’d find a treasure chest of information at the Boot Hill Museum in Dodge City. But, since many small towns have established historical museums in Kansas, we might start off with Garden City. It’s closer to Lamar. Although we could plan many daytrips to Kansas, the children would enjoy visiting the alpacas, cats, and the black rhino living at the Lee Richardson Zoo. Not bad for a Sunday afternoon drive from Lamar real estate.

Oklahoma, here we come!

Then there’s Oklahoma. About a 2.5-hour drive south/southeast of homes in Lamar, we could explore the town of Guymon, Oklahoma. It’s the largest town in the OK Panhandle. Rich with fields and pastures, the industrious farmers have conquered Mother Nature. See our fantastic listing of irrigated farmland.

A North Texas/New Mexico Jaunt

Heading southwest from Lamar, we could check out Dalhart, a cowboy town in the Texas Panhandle. From Lamar, Colorado, we can get there in a little over 2 hours.

In about 2 1/2 hours, we can arrive in Raton, New Mexico.

Colorado

We can take our pick for day trips both west of Lamar and north of Lamar. In approximately 2 hours we can be in Walsenburg, Trinidad, Pueblo, Limon, or Burlington. Each of these small towns comes with a story–usually found in the local museums—and attractions.

Heading farther west into the Rocky Mountains, the scenic drives, hikes, and recreation would be wonderful someday. When we have more time, we’ll get to the mountain towns and villages. To the north of Lamar properties, we look forward to visiting cattle country. We might even find a working guest ranch to join for a couple of days.

Making a Home in Lamar – Realtors

Residential real estate agents at Cruikshank Realty in Lamar can show you the way. Find out about all the perks of living in southeastern Colorado. Call (719) 336-7802 to schedule an appointment or come by our office at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052 .

Specializing in Residential, Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales , Management, Auctions, and Exchanges.

Value of Ranch Properties near the Arkansas River

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 01:18:16 GMT

Value of Ranch Properties near the Arkansas River

Ranch properties near the Arkansas River continue to add value for locals and visitors in southeastern Colorado. North of Lamar, at the John Martin Reservoir, the Purgatoire River joins the Arkansas River.

The basin enlarges, becoming wider and shallower, before winding along nearby farms and ranches. Our Lamar real estate benefits from the location in the Arkansas River valley.

Arkansas River Trajectory

The Arkansas River is the third largest tributary of the Mississippi River. After its headwaters form high in the Colorado Rocky Mountains, the Arkansas River flows 1,469 miles through four states. The waters drop from high in the Sawatch Range near Leadville and make their way eastward through Colorado, Kansas,Oklahoma, and Arkansas.

Ranch Properties near the Arkansas

Wild whitewater flashes down the mountainsides but the river mellows out in the High Plains. The waters feed ranch properties that are located in otherwise often-dry areas. At times, the river crosses horse properties and cattle ranches or fenced fields of sheep and goats.

In this agricultural valley, farms and ranches produce many types of crops, including pastureland, trees, fruits, and vegetables. Occasionally, a riverfront property for sale can be found on the hillsides or ridges.

Ranches for Hospitality

Waterfront properties near the Arkansas River also sustain Colorado’s favorite pastimes: hunting and fishing. The natural resources of river properties often inspire property owners to share their amenities and they may run quiet guest ranches or resorts that mingle with working ranches.

The Arkansas River thunders down through Canon City, flowing southeast to Pueblo. Then it’s on to Rocky Ford (see our listing for sale) and La Junta, a center for commercial livestock trading. The river then turns northeast to Los Alamos and then the John Martin Reservoir before passing along the north side of Lamar and reaching Kansas.

As it passes into Kansas and Oklahoma, other tributaries replenish the flow: the Salt Fork River, Cimarron River, the Verdigris, Grand, and Canadian rivers included.

Historical Dependence on Arkansas River

Before modern land grants and organization, the Arkansas River drew and sustained Indigenous and native tribes. Fur traders, explorers, and pioneers used the water for transport and daily necessities. Without the presence of the river, railroad lines may have skipped Lamar altogether. Today, we ride horses but we can also hop on Amtrak!

Everyone needs water and farmers and ranchers know that well. Healthy crops, pastures, and fields contribute to healthy people and ecosystems. The Arkansas River truly adds value to properties wherever it flows.

Ranch Properties in Southeastern Colorado

Learn more about river properties, farms and ranches in Colorado, Kansas, and Oklahoma. Call Gene Cruikshank at Cruikshank Realty (719) 336-7802 . Schedule an appointment or come by our office at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052.

Specializing in Residential, Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales , Management, Auctions, and Exchanges.

Can I Live off Farming Income?

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 01:18:14 GMT

Can I Live off Farming Income?

Dozens of factors affect farming income . As these factors often move, farmers adjust to these conditions and often employ other income streams. Do you wonder, Is farming for me? Can you expect to live off the income produced on a farm in southeastern Colorado? Can I live off the farming income?

Affording the Farm and Ranch Lifestyle

Lamar offers stable financial opportunities for anyone with the determination to get farms going and to keep them maintained. And that takes creative genius. So, it’s not a simple equation.

Ask yourself. Do you have resources? Do you appreciate the small towns in southeastern Colorado and their old-fashioned ways? Do you thrive on conquering physical projects? Do you think of a small farming operation or do you want to be involved in a large production? Which agricultural properties catch your attention?

Historical Farms

Although Colorado has strong agricultural communities, the types and sizes of farms and ranches have changed dramatically over the past century. Homesteaders used to produce a variety of foods—meats, grain, and fruits and vegetables. They were family farms and the family worked them. Small family farms make up about 88 percent of farms in the United States today.

Commercial Farms

Witness endless commercial farms leading into Denver with colorful fields owned by large corporations. Across the nation, these big producers make up only 3 percent of the farms by number. But they produce 54 percent of the yield.

Even so, we continual see movement away from cities and towards small organic farms, farmers markets, and farm to table opportunities.

Farm Household Incomes

The United States Department of Agriculture or USDA gives us some idea. Its Economic Research Service offers an overview with figures for 2022 and updated in February 2024. This may give you some information to help you study the feasibility of living on farming income.

In 2022, small and big farm owners experienced a median household income of between $95,418 and $505,830. That exceeds the median household income in the United States. The income increased based on the size of the farm and the off-farm employment.

Small vs Large Farms – Income Breakdowns

Farms submit accounting figures to the government in GCFI. Eighty-eight percent of all farms produce less than $350,000 in GCFI, putting them into the category of small family farms. Most dollar production comes from large farms, defined by at least $1 million in GCFI but only 3 percent of farms produce this much.

Regardless of size, gross cash farm income or GCFI includes:

Commodity cash receipts
Farm-related income
Federal Government payments
Off-Farm Employment

Just so you know, many farm owners lease out portions of their properties for income. In addition, it’s not unusual to find farmers who develop multiple income sources. For example, a cattle/calf operation can increase farming income. In fact, in 2022, farms across the nation brought in $258.5 billion of income by adding cow/calf operations, poultry and eggs, and dairy. These totaled 33 percent, 29.8 percent, and 22.2 percent.

Farms for Sale in Southeastern Colorado

Cruikshank Realty, Inc. in Lamar lists the following Colorado farms and farmland for sale. The properties offer a variety of resources. Prices range from $154,000 to $1,600,000.

20+ acres Lamar CO
15+/- acres in Lamar, CO
20+/- acres in Lamar, CO
50+/- acres in Boone, CO
110+/- acres in Boone, CO
300+/- acres in Cheraw, CO
320+/- acres in Towner, CO
475+/- acres in Holly, CO
600+/- acres in Two Buttes, CO
3350+/- acres in Walsenburg, CO
6030+/- acres in Keyes, OK

Farm and Ranch Brokers – Lamar, Colorado

For more information, please call Cruikshank Realty (719) 336-7802 . Schedule an appointment or come by our office at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. Specializing in Residential, Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales, Management, Auctions, and Exchanges.

Tales of Two Cruikshank Realty Residential Real Estate Agents

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 01:18:13 GMT

Tales of Cruikshank Realty Residential Real Estate Agents

Let’s introduce you to Cruikshank Realty’s residential real estate agents here in Lamar. Amanda Spitz and her team. They’re ready to hear how they can help you find or sell a home. If you want to move your family to a smaller town in an agricultural area, let Amanda show you around.

Our residential experts help Buyers and Sellers in the region. Get to know a bit about these energetic real estate agents. We’ll share their tales and a couple of Lamar homes for sale .

Here’s an sample MLS Listing in Lamar:

Look at this big, affordable home for sale. The four-bedroom home boasts 2400 square feet of living area. Located in the southeastern side of town, new owners will cherish the extra outdoor space, too. Price: $225,000.

Amanda Spitz, Associate Broker, Cruikshank Realty

Long-time Lamar resident Amanda Spitz spent 15 years teaching students in the Lamar School District. With her friendly, efficient nature, she easily developed new skills and now offers clients high-quality service in the real estate industry.

Amanda and her husband raised three children here in rural America. They raise horses, and own local feed yards and a cow-calf operation. They enjoy the sports activities, ranch rodeo, and the people. Her solid work ethic and integrity helps make each transaction enjoyable.

Associate Broker Amanda Spitz

MLS Listing in Wiley: Check out this Craftsman style home just up the road in Wylie, Colorado. From the studs out, it’s completely remodeled. The 1346 square foot home features 3 bedrooms and two baths and is a nice lot. Price: $225,000.

Residential Real Estate Agents – Cruikshank Realty

Our amiable agents will make certain your real estate experience fits your needs and goals. Are you looking to downsize, retire, or raise a family? Do you want to list your home for sale in Lamar this year? Call Amanda to learn how to prepare it for the best return on investment.

Cruikshank Realty
Amanda Spitz, Associate Broker FA 100098353
20 S. Main Street
Lamar, CO 81052
(719) 336-7802

Why Land Investors Need Range Management Practices

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 01:18:11 GMT

Why Land Investors Need Range Management Practices

In Colorado, successful land investors need to adopt range management practices. Pastures and rangelands get hit by a gamut of challenges, from weather to regulations to animal health.

Let’s find out why it’s smart to get ahead of the game. A guide on the Colorado State University website entitled, “Range and Pasture Management,” can be a good place to start.

Why Manage Land

Well-managed land brings the highest continuous yield without endangering the range. When landowners determine to successfully manage land investments, they will be effective. But it takes good plans. By creating short-term and long-term plans to care for the land, the value and uses can be improved. Study the range, soil, and water resources. Plan for ranch managers to positively impact the ranch ecosystem.

Millions of Acres of Cropland

Colorado encompasses 66,700,000 acres. We count 28 million in the mountain ranges and almost 16 million in the plains. A whopping 22 million acres can be classified as croplands. Range lands include several types of grasslands and prairies. A combination of grassland, prairies, savannas, shrub land, deserts, wetlands and marshes, and native meadows can be found in the Colorado plains.

Range Lands Importance to Everyone

Range lands improve the standard of living and quality of life. How? As societies, we rely on wide-open land for many things – things we take for granted. For example, we produce food on rangeland. Animals forage.

Open lands improve the quality of the air and water and can stabilize the climate a little. Land may also mitigate the effect of floods and drought. Under the microscope, we see more. Soil fertility, pollination, and nutrient cycling show up. The biodiversity and profound beauty of Colorado’s pastures and ranges provides us with peaceful cross-country drives.

Range Management Goals

How do we use range management? Savvy landowners build effective management plans to facilitate the care of their agricultural investments. Decisions to plant, water, or rest pastureland can make big differences. Each portion of a property will have its own specific needs and goals.

Customized Range Management Plans

Specific steps need to be customized for each part of a range or pasture. Is there livestock production, watershed conservation, wildlife habitat, recreation, and open space? Of importance will be setting achievable annual goals.

For example, decide on simple but carefully thought-out ways to seed and rest the soil. A farmer may choose to cover a range with good forage plants to attract wildlife. For the health of the livestock and wildlife, landowners might fortify the range. Where will the feed reserve be held? How can a ranch manager plant and/or harvest to prevent soil erosion?

Get Familiar with Plants and Ranges

If you toy around with the idea of managing a ranch, take a step forward. Tour a handful of Colorado ranches. See the Range and Management guide at CSU. Learn the terminology associated with rangeland and pastures. It’s taught in Chapter III in the Table of Contents.

Range and pasture management
Range plants and structures
Common range terms
How plants grow and indicate grazing response
Decreaser plants
Increaser plants
Invader plants
Range sites and ecological sites
Range utilization
Poisonous and injurious plants
Range and ecological site descriptions

Real Estate Agents in SE Colorado

Are you ready to invest in land or run a ranch? Let’s talk about it.

Call Cruikshank Realty (719) 336-7802 . Schedule an appointment or come by our office at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052.

Specializing in Residential, Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales , Management, Auctions, and Exchanges.

Welcome Tress Gadash: Associate Broker Cruikshank Realty

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 01:18:10 GMT

Welcome Tress Gadash: Associate Broker Cruikshank Realty

Allow us to introduce our most recent addition to the team, Tress Gadash, who has joined us as an Associate Broker. He is a valuable contributor to our Farm and Ranch Real Estate Division at Cruikshank Realty. Tress possesses a high level of enthusiasm along with knowledge and expertise in cattle care and ranch land management.

Talents to Help Clients

Successful real estate transactions require initiative and attention to detail. Tress Gadash offers unique abilities that he refined over his years in the medical field. Tress holds a degree in Medical Laboratory Science from Weber State University and has worked as a Medical Laboratory Scientist for more than 15 years. What has this got to do with real estate? Consider all of the information and details needed to create contracts, estimate property values, and grasp and explain water sources and rights. His experience in the medical field, which demands continual attention to detail, has prepared him for the detail-oriented world of real estate.

Quality Rural Real Estate

The land in southeast Colorado is primarily utilized for agricultural purposes, but also provides numerous hunting opportunities. Farmers and ranchers cherish their land and the lifestyle it provides. Tress understands the dedication required, the challenges that may arise, and the enjoyment that the land can provide. Tress also has years of ranch management expertise and is familiar with the many benefits and challenges different properties offer.

So, if you are interested in buying or selling your land, please give Tress Gadash, our newest Associate Broker, a call.

Learning with Experts

At Cruikshank Realty, our real estate firm specializes in Residential, Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales , Management, Auctions, and Exchanges. Tress has been learning the ropes from the experts at Cruikshank Realty ever since he obtained his Colorado real estate license.

Gene Cruikshank, Broker/Owner, specializes and leads the farm and ranch team. Thanks to Gene’s real estate licenses in four states—Colorado, New Mexico, Kansas, and Oklahoma—Gene and his Associates are able to assist clients throughout a wider area.

Cruikshank Realty Real Estate Agents

For more information, please call Cruikshank Realty (719) 336-7802 . Schedule an appointment or come by our office at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052.

Farm, Ranch and Enjoy Larger Properties in Otero County

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 01:18:08 GMT

Farm, Ranch and Enjoy Larger Properties in Otero County

Full of potential, properties in Otero County , Colorado might just catch your attention. This southeastern Colorado real estate nestles near several smaller farming communities. Lamar may be one of the largest. West of Lamar, the tiny town of Cheraw and nearby Cheraw Lake could be the perfect place to invest. And yes, investing in Cheraw farm could be the ticket for your dream project.

Otero County Real Estate

From our Cruikshank Realty offices in Lamar, we head west to LaJunta for big livestock and farming events. LaJunta is the seat of Otero County. To the north you’ll find Cheraw, a community of under 300. heck out the Bay Farm property for sale in Otero County. Take 266 farther west for 20 minutes, and you’ll be in Rocky Ford, Colorado and can also check out a well-maintained house for sale in Otero County.

Properties in Otero County for Sale

Cheraw CO Farm for Sale. The Jerry Bay Farm property for sale east of Cheraw features 303.4 acres. Set in the beautiful Arkansas Valley, deer romp in the pastures. Think hunting. Improvements support crop production and grazing. The property includes exemplary irrigation including a new set up and water rights. 272.7 shares of irrigation water come from the Holbrook Canal.

This Otero County property is ready for your operation. You’ll love the water sources. The farm or ranch features a barn and fencing and elaborate new irrigation. In addition, the owners arranged for a State Grazing Lease, providing the ability to diversify production. Run livestock, and horses, and/or grow crops. Along with cantaloupe, the Bay Farm has produced sorghum, corn, triticale, wheat, and feet. 34510 County Rd KK, Cheraw, Colorado 81030. Crop acres include Tract 1 for 119 acres and Tract 2 for 125.8 acres., available separately. Total Price: $1,350,000.

Rocky Ford Home for Sale. Let us know if you like to live big. Here’s a modern farm home for sale with a spacious floor plan. The 4,948 square foot floor plan includes 5 bedrooms and 3 baths and a 4-car garage! The owners added everything you need to this lovely 4.21-acre property. 982 Cedar Avenue, Rocky Ford, Colorado 81067. Price: $850,000.

Southern Colorado Brokers – Farm, Ranch & Residential

Call Cruikshank Realty, Inc. in Lamar for the grand tour of these properties in Otero County. Gene Cruikshank at (719) 336-7802 or call Joe Bush at (719) 688-7145 . Ask about farming and ranching and the lifestyle in Otero County.

The Life of Wiley Colorado: Affordable Real Estate

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 01:18:07 GMT

The Life of Wiley Colorado: Affordable Real Estate

You, too, can enjoy the life of Wiley Colorado! First off, find affordable real estate in this charming small town. Relax and be creative. You’ll be one of only 500 residents and far from the hectic roadrunner lifestyle of big cities. But join surrounding communities like Lamar, a bouquet of towns located within 30 minutes in the Prowers County region.

Leisure Activities

Under the clear blue skies of the Arkansas Valley, the semi-arid climate stays moderate all year round. It mixes agrarian and recreation. The Wiley community enjoys old-fashioned leisure activities. For example, south of town the John Martin Reservoir State Park is a favorite for good reason. It is popular for water sports like jet skiing and waterskiing as well as fishing, camping, and picnicking. And you’ll find places to hike and hunt,too.

District RE-13 schools serve students at Wiley Elementary (150 students) and Wiley Junior and Senior High schools (112 students). School and community activities may get you out volunteering and cheering on the home teams.

Affordable Wiley CO Home for Sale

Looking for a home for sale? Perfectly placed on an in-town lot, this three-bedroom, two bath Wiley home for sale keeps a few historic elements (circa 1922) after a total renovation.

Address: 201 Welton St., Wiley, CO 81092
Listing ID: #219242
Price: $225,000

Yes, move right into the beautifully updated home and you get the original built-ins, graceful arch, and exposed brick. Then it is all new. Smart new kitchen cabinets, stunning wall-to-wall wood style floors, and all new windows bring this home into the 21st century. In addition to new paint, the home features new HVAC, electrical, pics plumbing, a water line to the meter, gas line, and much more.

The open concept living and dining area in the 1.5 story floor plans provides plenty of space. On the main level, the 956 square feet features the kitchen and great room area plus the master suite. Upstairs the second and third bedroom plus another bath at 390 additional square feet and unfinished basement adds extra storage. There is no garage.

Real Estate Agents in SE Colorado

How to Get Your Colorado Farm Ready to Sell

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:56:12 GMT

How to Get Your Colorado Farm Ready to Sell

Selling a farm takes time. Put time on your side. Start now to get your Colorado farm ready to sell next year. Fortunately for you, more buyers and investors search the real estate market during warmer months. Look to catch them during the Spring and Summer.

Interview Brokers

Find yourself a real estate broker who specializes in farm and ranch sales. Interview agents and assess who will be the broker you need. Who will give you honest information and put in the energy required for success? Ask questions. What about farms interests you? Are you from the area and familiar with my county? When did you start selling farms and ranches? Do you have references? May I talk to any of your clients? Do you have a team with specific expertise? Do you have other interests that dovetail with large land sales?

Gather Documents

When you decide on a broker, assist by gathering documents to establish an estimated value for your property. If you have not already organized the legal documents associated with your property and the agricultural records, do it now. Pull an updated title, the land survey, any plats, along with deeded and insurable access documents, and copies of easements. Dig out the water rights, grazing leases and third-party leases. Now pull out the financial statements including annual costs, expenses, and income.

Advice from your CPA

Talk with your CPA. You want to know the financial implications of selling your farm. How will it affect your national and state taxes? Essentially, estimating your income for next year, decide if this is the time to sell—or not. And understand why.

Work with your Broker

Now that you have professional assistance, get down to business. Create goals that will drive you towards a positive outcome. List the positive aspects of your farm property and know the vulnerabilities, such as water shortages. Delineate the rights, including water and mineral rights, grazing and other leases, and conservation easements. Record the recreational advantages of the property, such as hunting and fishing possibilities. Assign value to the assets. These may include animals, equipment, a farming business, buildings, and improvements.

Develop a marketing plan based on a realistic assessment of the real estate market in your town and county.

Execute the Marketing Plan

Now decide if you want to fix up the farm and to what degree. While estates often sell as-is, resident farmers still have a few months to paint, remove trash and rubble, check irrigation systems, and more.

When the right time rolls around, you and your broker will be ready to move full steam ahead.

Farm Brokers in Southern Colorado

Contact Cruickshank Realty, Inc. in Lamar, Colorado at (719) 336-7802 . Broker/Owner Gene Cruikshank, also an Accredited Land Consultant, brings decades of experience in farm and ranch real estate transactions. Gene graduated with a B.S. degree in Agriculture from Colorado State University and continued studying agriculture and marketing. He mastered farming himself and served as a professional appraiser in land, minerals, and water. Gene will be happy to visit. Discuss the best options for your farm, including auctions. Gene holds licenses in Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico.

Invest in Boone Colorado Acreage near Pueblo

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:56:10 GMT

Invest in Boone Colorado Acreage near Pueblo

If you want a land investment near the front range cities, look at this well-priced Colorado acreage in Boone . Sink some roots into Pueblo County and you will be close to farms and ranches, ski mountains and rivers, along with big-name entertainment and sports. To go to Pueblo, drive west for 25 minutes, continue north 25 minutes to Colorado Springs, and you’ll arrive in Denver an hour later.

49.5 AC Parcel of Colorado Farm Acreage

Located on Highway 96, 2 miles southeast of Boone, this farmland puts you right in the middle of the agrarian lifestyle so prominent in Pueblo County, Colorado. Why not build a home, plant fruit trees, or raise farm animals? You’ll still have land leftover for a vegetable garden. The property is bounded by steel posts and barbed wires with cross-fence separating the cropland and grazing land.

Irrigation Well Boone No. 9 serves for irrigation and domestic uses on this portion of the JMJM property. Flood application through gated pipe irrigates 46 acres. In addition, the Colorado Canal offers more irrigated grazing. List Price $200,000.

71.9 acres land for sale in Boone CO

This Southern Colorado parcel is located south of US Highway 50 and the Arkansas River. Divided into three parcels, this complete property includes water rights. Two parcels are priced at $35,000 each. The well is priced separately for $50,000 and only includes a right of ingress and egress extending to the parcels. 61st Lane, Boone, CO 81025

A Colorado Real Estate Investment to Fit Your Goals?

Southern Colorado real estate investments offer long-term positioning in one’s portfolio. As a growing state, Colorado uses plenty of commodities and participates in many regional recreational activities. In addition to farming and ranching, the state is ripe for a burst in manufacturing. Small towns such as Boone, Colorado (population 300) offer a lot of elbow room and development possibilities.

Rich with historic import, Pueblo County feasts on the culture of Indigenous and Native American cultures. For many reasons, the region draws visitors and tourists to the area. The old Boone Santa Fe Railroad depot serves as the current town hall, a reminder of the days when people arrived by passenger rail.

Boone, Colorado sits at 4,465 feet in the High Plains. Daniel Boone’s grandson, Albert Gallatin Boone, founded the community. The first postmaster, Boone also served as Indian agent to the Cheyenne and Arapaho. Today, Boone welcomes visitors via the American Discovery Trail, Frontier Pathways National Scenic and Historic Byway lead them to The San Isabel National Forest and Greenhorn Mountain Wilderness. Alternatively, during warmer months the ambitious cyclists pass through on the Western Express bicycle route.

Southern Colorado Realtors – Boone CO Land for Sale

Contact Cruikshank Realty, Inc. 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, Colorado for information about this Boone CO real estate and other properties in the region. Call our Farm & Ranch brokers at (719) 326-7802 .

Is Southeastern CO Kiowa County Real Estate for You?

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:56:08 GMT

Is Southeastern CO Kiowa County Real Estate for You?

Everyone enjoying living in Kiowa County real estate has lots of elbow room. Kiowa County stretches west from Towner at the Kansas border. Over 1786 square miles, about 1500 residents live in small towns established during the Colorado Gold Rush along the Missouri Pacific Railroad.

As we drive north from Lamar, Colorado, we take US Highways 287 and 385. Colorado Highway 96 crosses east and west through Kiowa County. In addition, the TransAmerica Trail Bicycle Route passes from Eads and on to Pueblo and Breckenridge on its cross-country journey, Virginia to Oregon.

Farmland for Sale in Towner, Colorado

Cruikshank Realty, Inc. features vacant lots and land totaling 320 acres for sale in Towner. Zoned AG, the 2645 x 5280 square-foot property consists of tillable farmland and half CRP. Listing Price: $368,000.

The best uses for farmland in Kiowa County may be dry farming and ranching. Irrigation challenges stem from older water rights being sold upstream. Talk to Cruikshank Realty’s Gene Cruikshank, a long-time farmer, to get his opinion on the soil and resources for the Towner farmland.

Towner is on the far eastern edge of Kiowa County. It’s a gateway community on Highway 96, only two miles from the Kansas border. Travelers will be directed for gasoline to Sheridan Lake, 11 miles up the road or 18 miles farther east to Tribune, Kansas. With a population under 20, the influx of crews helping with harvest season gives the community an extra spin.

Several rivers and creeks pass through the long and narrow southeastern Colorado county, mostly feeding into the Arkansas River. Wildlife always knows where to find water. Deer, pronghorn, pheasants, and the occasional elk frequent the Towner community, making hunting a popular activity.

Eads Colorado, County Seat

Set in the middle of Kiowa County, Eads, the biggest city, has served as the county seat since 1901. Once called Dayton, Eads offers residents a sense of place and community. The Maine Street Bash is a fun event when folks come out for activities and live performances.

In Eads, homebuyers find an eclectic selection of historic houses and buildings dating back to 1887. Cruikshank Realty, Inc. features a charming single-family home for sale in Eads, Colorado. An affordable option in a quiet neighborhood, the two-bedroom home was built in 1908. The 828 square foot home sits on a substantial 7000 square foot lot. It features a front stoop, a small basement, and a fenced front yard. Listing Price: $55,000.

Historic Significance of Kiowa County CO

The Kiowa Nation is the namesake of Kiowa County. Tribes traversed the area long before the Europeans came through. Kiowa County pays tribute to those who lost their lives before Colorado became a state during the Sand Creek Massacre of 1864. Years later, the railroad transported miners, families, and goods from the east coast and into Colorado and beyond. The county sits in the heartland of the USA.

Your Southeastern Colorado Real Estate Specialists

Cruikshank Realty, Inc. of Lamar, Colorado has been serving clients for 40 years. A few minutes from Kiowa County, Lamar acts as the main trading center for agriculture in Southeastern Colorado. Our Residential and Farm and Ranch divisions offer active counseling with each client to determine their specific objectives and reach investment real estate goals.

Contact Gene Cruikshank and the team at Cruikshank Realty, Inc. for more information. Drop by our offices at 20 South Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052 or call us on (719) 336-7802.

Colorful Autumn Trips – Lamar to Southern Colorado

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:56:07 GMT

Colorful Autumn Trips – Lamar to Southern Colorado

Lamar Colorado real estate is south of the Arkansas River. Lamar serves as a gateway for trains entering Colorado and crossing the eastern plains. From here, you can ride trains and scenic railways to tour southern Colorado and more. For example, Amtrak’s Southwest Chief passes through the stunning geography between Lamar, La Junta, and Trinidad. Ride or drive. But do make these glorious trips during the fall season.

Daytrip from Lamar

Traders and settlers followed the Santa Fe trail through the Midwest and to Lamar and into the Big Timbers. Big Timbers or stands of giant cottonwoods extend 45 miles along the Arkansas River. They lent shelter for pioneers and picturesque autumn photoshoots to travelers today.

Seventy years after the Louisiana Purchase, the Santa Fe Railway opened its Lamar train station in 1886. Settlers flocked to Lamar and the Arkansas Valley–a place treasured by the American Indians. This region remains the heart of agricultural color in Southern Colorado.

From Trinidad take the Highway Of Legends

Cuchara and Trinidad are destination mountain villages. You can take in the beauty along the Highways Of Legends as it rolls through the southern Colorado foothills. The scenic byway peaks on the Cuchara Pass at 9,938 feet, with astounding views of the Sangre de Cristos and Spanish Peaks.

Walsenburg to Trinidad Loop

A historic gateway community of Walsenburg sits along Interstate 25. Farther on, the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad rolls through fall colors way beyond the roads. The train stops in Alamosa, Fort Garland, and La Veta.

Those who camp might take the byway south past Bear Lake, Blue Lake campgrounds, and Monument Lake and Trinidad Lake. East of the Cuchara Pass enroute back to I-25, you’ll cross Cordova Pass, which peaks at 11,243 feet, and the town of Aguilar. To get the full tour, take I-25 south to Trinidad and the byway back up to Walsenburg.

Alpine Loop for Your 4 Wheel Drive

Trudged by miners almost 200 years ago, the rugged Alpine Loop climbs Engineer Pass and Cinnamon Pass at 12,000 feet. You’ll need a 4-wheel drive vehicle. The Alpine Look passes ghost towns and mining camps such as Capitol City and Animas Forks.

Far Away and Aside

Lamar, Colorado is antipodal. It’s one of three places with the distinction of being globally opposite another landmass. Lamar lies directly opposite Ile Amsterdam, an island in the southern Indian Ocean, and to the research station at Martin-de-Vivies.

You’ll have to opt for real estate in Lamar or Southern Colorado if you want colorful autumn seasons, though.

Realtors – Lamar Colorado 

Call Cruikshank Realty (719) 336-7802 and we’ll point you to the best Lamar real estate to fit your goals. Come by to see us at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. Invest in a charming home in southern Colorado, a friendly place along the Amtrak trail. We’ve got affordable retirement options in our present MLS listings.

What Could You Do on an Equipped McClave CO Property?

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:56:04 GMT

What Could You Do on an Equipped McClave CO Property?

Set on a slight 5 acres in Bent County, this McClave CO property for sale is already equipped with everything you need to live, manufacture, or farm. Pull in your truck and tractor, move into the two-bedroom house, and get going. You will be just in time for some outdoor recreation at nearby John Martin Reservoir.

Address: 30061 Highway 196, McClave, CO 81057
Listing ID: #210604
Price: $279,000

Details – McClave CO Property

The property measures 4.88 acres. Primarily free of landscaping, the land offers possibilities. Set up shop, bring animals, grow vegetables. This place yearns for your industrious activities.

Built in 1955, the two-bedroom home offers enough space for an active lifestyle. Protected by a security system, it offers 1381 square feet of living area with 247 square feet more in the unfinished basement. The large kitchen, living room, and two bedrooms offer single level living.

Recently, the home has been upgraded. The new owners will enjoy the new windows, new kitchen cabinets, and new flooring in the kitchen and bathrooms. Systems are also upgraded. For example, there’s a new attic fan that helps keep the home cool and the water heater and sewer line are new.

Go outside and see the new cement walkway circling the house. Then there’s a new gated fence with thick cement supports. And the details: two new outdoor spigots and a new garage door opener!

Let’s talk about the shop. Upgraded with electricity, the shop measures 80 x 50. If you’re a carpenter, this could be your haven. In addition, two separate single-car garages protect toys and equipment. Hang your sign or fly your flag.

Lifestyle in McClave Colorado

McClave sits at 3865-foot elevations under the brilliant blue skies of southeastern Colorado. The town of less than 1000 residents and is 20 minutes west of Lamar in Bent County. It is about 15 minutes from fishing at the John Martin Reservoir. The four-season climate is semi-arid and does not reach the extremes.

People living in McClave enjoy a basic agrarian lifestyle. Everyone, however, knows where to go for more amenities. McClave neighborhoods include single-family homes, post office, a general store, and the town park. You will find the church and school, banking, and gas station not too far from the hay mills. People in McClave like the casual Western lifestyle.

Real Estate Agents in SE Colorado

For more information, please call Cruikshank Realty (719) 336-7802 . Schedule an appointment or come by our office at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. Specializing in Residential, Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales, Management, Auctions, and Exchanges.

How to Choose Projects to Upgrade Older Lamar Homes

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:25:15 GMT

How to Choose Projects to Upgrade Older Lamar Homes

Buyers often decide to upgrade the older Lamar homes . Some of the historic homes were built in the early 1900s but we can show you representative home styles from any decade. Many older homes are in better condition than their newer counterparts but they still need work.

The home’s price is in your budget. So, you play around with ideas. You might like a shiny new kitchen or bath? How about the flooring? If you like the home, the neighborhood, and the price, you’ll need direction if you decide to remodel. Which projects should you plan to do first?

First Choose Basic Projects

First, we suggest you try to ignore the surface decorative upgrades. For the moment, pay attention to the bones. The foundation, the walls, the attic, and the roof. Does the home have sufficient structural integrity? Has there been water damage, termites, or dangerous integration of asbestos?

Decide whether you need more insulation in the walls or attic to save on energy bills. You might need to replace any clay pipes that tend to crumble. And experts may tell you to replace old ductwork and plumbing fixtures.

Also, look at your lifestyle. If you plan to work at home from a computer, you’ll want to upgrade the wiring. The electricity lines connecting to older homes may not be grounded or energy-efficient. Will it be able to manage the multi-electronic lifestyle of the 21st century?

Aesthetics: Mid Century Modern

In the design sense, those who find older Lamar homes from the mid-1900s are in luck. Today, the Midcentury modern architecture and furnishings add to the popular uncluttered look. Forget the heavy oak and carved woods. The clean horizontal lines create an openness, both in floor plan and furnishings.

See design magazines. Open horizontal or geometric shapes are incorporated into the light fixtures, the furniture style, and the contrasting light and dark color schemes reign, along with open floor plans.

Projects for Mid-Century to Modern Age

In an article entitled, “Projects to bring your 1950s house into the modern age,” Theresa Mears offers several projects. Any of these could be helpful projects to modernize older homes. Most of you do not have the design and carpentry skills of Skip and Joanna Gaines, right? So be realistic. Based on your determination, patience, and budget, which ones would you undertake?

Change the flooring
Improve the lighting
Take down walls
Hang window treatments at the ceilings
Remove popcorn ceilings and textured walls
Paint dark trim and doors
Replace doors or in large windows
Vault the ceilings

Layers of Upgrades

Previous owners may have already fussed with the original style. Decide whether previous remodels suit your fancy. For example, would you prefer the original hardwood floors to the shag carpet now covering them? Can you paint the kitchen cabinets and dispense with the draperies? You’ll be able to find several low-cost upgrades. Work with us to find a home with good bones and the best upgraded value.

Lamar Real Estate Agents

For help searching new or older homes in Lamar , Colorado, call Cruikshank Realty (719) 336-7802 . Stop by to see us at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052.

Rocky Ford for Small Town Southern Colorado Lifestyle

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:25:14 GMT

Rocky Ford for Small Town Southern Colorado Lifestyle

Ever heard of Rocky Ford, Colorado? It’s a small town in Otero County , between Pueblo and Lamar, in the middle of several small agrarian towns. A thousand feet lower than Denver, Rocky Ford is part of the high desert at 4100-foot elevations. Changing temperatures and good soil allow for a choice of crops. Melons are popular.

Take a Ride Through Rocky Ford

Driving along the Main Street in Rocky Ford, we find the essentials: banking, car parts, seed stores, and eateries. Folks enjoy a quiet walkable town and agrarian lifestyle. Among the 3800 residents, retirees also enjoy the slow pace of living a bit away from the city buzz. Several Colorado highways meet in Rocky Ford: Highways 50, 71, and 256 lead across America.

Rocky Ford CO Real Estate

The Rocky Ford community offers a sought-after elbow room and a friendly vibe. Newer farmhouses contrast with older bungalows and properties with acreage or smaller lots. Reasonable prices also help make life doable. For example, take our Rocky Ford home for sale on the edge of town with a price check over $800,000 or look at a $80,000 historic home downtown. Take a look at this well-kept home for sale in Rocky Ford on a beautiful 4.21 acres. It overlooks the greenery of irrigated fields. Find out more here .

Attractions

Highway access brings relaxed travelers who seek old-fashioned destinations. They might visit these interesting stops along the way. Knapps Farm Market, Otero Museum, The Railyard, Vogel Canyon, Picketwire Canyonlands, Koshare Indian Museum, Bents Old Fort, and the La Junta golf course.

Add a point of interest. Kit Carson called a shallow crossing on the Arkansas River the Rocky Ford Crossing Place. And the name stuck, becoming permanent when two men decided to build a general store there. Years later, Rocky Ford became a train stop and a destination.

Towns Around Rocky Ford, Colorado

Between Lamar and Pueblo are many small communities. They share in sports leagues and in interests highlighted by their agricultural communities. Several surround Rocky Ford, including Cheraw, La Junta, Swink, Manzanola, Holly, Fowler, Olney Springs, Las Animas, and more. So, when there are community gatherings in Rocky Ford, others come. Likewise, residents of homes in Rocky Ford frequently head down the road to these neighboring communities.

Real Estate Agents Specializing in Colorado Land, Farms and Ranches

For more information about Rocky Ford CO properties, call Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802 . Cruikshank Realty is located at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. Specializing in Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales , Residential, Management, Auctions, and Exchanges in the region of SE Colorado and surrounds.

Hunt Big Game, Turkey & Birds in Eastern Colorado

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:25:13 GMT

Hunt Big Game, Turkey & Birds in Eastern Colorado

Although Prowers County sits in Colorado’s Eastern Plains, wildlife frequent the area. The avid Lamar hunter can stalk elk, mule deer, pronghorn, and turkey without driving too far. Wildlife habitat blends into the cottonwood creek and river bottoms, the rim rock ridges, the prairies, and pine.

Go a little north or west, and, yes, hunters get closer to rutting grounds. A handful of hunters from Eastern Colorado regularly head to the Rockies sometime during hunting season. We also take advantage of nearby hunts.

Types of Local Hunts

Local hunters get going by practicing with hunting bows, muzzle loaders, and rifles. Many of us in southeastern Colorado take a casual approach, trying out our intuitive skills in spotting our prey. Other times, we use deer stands. On August 1, 2023, you might be able to pick up Leftover Limited, Unlimited and Add-On Licenses.

Beginning Dates for Big Game Season

Check out the starting dates for hunting season in Colorado:

Archery: Plains deer October 1; Pronghorn bucks August 15; all Pronghorn September 1

Muzzleloader: Deer/Elk September 9; Plains deer October 14; Pronghorn September 21

Rifle Deer/Elk: Limited Elk October 14 and November 22; Deer/Elk October 28 and November 11; Plains deer October 28 and December 1; Pronghorn by draw October 7

John Martin State Wildlife Area

If you want to extend a hunting experience, camping sites are available at John Martin Reservoir State Park west of Lamar. Just five minutes away, you’ll discover hunting opportunities in the state wildlife area along the reservoir and the shorelines. Check the seasons and regulations at the Visitor Center.

Private Lands

Private land hunts create more opportunities for quality hunting experiences. Mule deer, whitetail, elk, pronghorn, and turkey frequent the ranches on the Eastern plains. Our hunters bag a substantial number of trophies.

Hunter Education

In Colorado, the law requires anyone born on or after January 1, 1949, to complete a hunting education course. Offered in several formats, these Colorado Parks and Wildlife Hunter Education Courses are held year-round. Take a classroom course, an internet course, and/or the optional bowhunting class. In addition, a special course and certificate will be required for mountain lion hunts.

Licenses and Tags

Licenses and tags are required for access to State Wildlife Areas and State Trust Lands. The 2023 annual license year goes from March 1 until March 31, 2024. Most tags are issued by drawing, and some outfitters do have landowner vouchers to facilitate the hunts. Licenses can be available over the counter, including the archery pronghorn licenses and spring turkey licenses. Purchase licenses online at (800) 244-5613 or download the myColorado app.

Real Estate Agents – Colorado Ranches

For more information, please call Gene Cruikshank, Broker/President, Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802 . Stop by Cruikshank Realty at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. Specializing in Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales , Management, Auctions, and Exchanges.

Southeastern Colorado Airports – Easy Access to Lamar Farms, Ranches, and Homes

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:25:11 GMT

Southeastern Colorado Airports – Easy Access to Lamar Farms, Ranches, and Homes

Let’s talk about airports convenient to properties in southeastern Colorado . If you fly small craft, you’ll find additional airports interspersed between the larger and commercial airports. Lamar’s Municipal Airport, now Southeast Colorado Regional Airport, lies 3-4 miles southwest of Lamar. Commercial carriers out of Denver and Colorado Springs fly passengers to destinations around the nation and world. This information changes often but gives travelers an idea of the options. Greyhound bus service to Lamar is available, albeit often once a day.

Southeast Colorado Regional Airport (LAA)

3562 County Road GG 2, Lamar, CO 81052
4 miles west of Lamar CO properties

Boasting the only all-weather instrument runway in the region, the Lamar airport services Prowers, Baca, Bent, Cheyenne, Kiowa, Crowley, and Otero counties. Along with private aircraft, business jets and executive aircraft use the airport. It spans 640 acres of land. There are two runways and five taxiways, aircraft parking, T hangers, and tiedown spaces. Maintenance is also available.

The Southeast Colorado Regional Airport sponsors aeronautical activities, including occasional military training. The Annual Planes to Plains Fly-In and Women’s Classic Air Race happen here. On an ongoing basis, observers may notice parachuting and skydiving.

Denver International Airport (DIA)

8500 Pena Blvd, Denver, CO 80249
160 miles northwest of Lamar properties

The Denver International Airport offers Colorado’s only international flight services. The huge, artistically designed facility features full services including gates, parking, services, dining, shopping, and services. Major carriers include united, Frontier, Southwest, American, Delta, Air Canada, British Airways, and Lufthansa. Find non-stop service to Mexico, Latin America, the Bahamas, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Switzerland, and Japan.

Colorado Springs Municipal Airport (COS)

7770 Milton E Proby Parkway, Colorado Springs, CO 80916
160 miles northwest of Lamar real estate

Situated approximately 125 miles northwest of Lamar, the Colorado Springs Regional Airport hosts five major airlines. It is closer than Denver International Airport, and parking is less expensive. COS provides service to the larger cities in the Southwest and Texas. Carriers include American, Avelo, Delta, Southwest, Sun Country Airlines, and United Airlines. offer nonstop flights to Atlanta, Burbank, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, San Antonio, San Diego, and Minneapolis-St. Paul.

Pueblo Memorial Airport (PUB)

31201 Bryan Cir, Suite 200, Pueblo, CO 81001
115 miles west of real estate in Lamar

This smaller airport features Southern Airways Express with daily flights to Denver International Airport

Garden City Regional Airport in Kansas (GCK)

2225 S Air Service Rd Ste 112, Garden City, KS 67846
112 miles west of properties in Lamar

American Airlines/Envoy Air offers daily service to Dallas/Fort Worth.

More Local Airports Near Lamar

Additional local airports nearby include Limon (LIC), Goodland (GLD), Trinidad (TAD), Guymon (GUY), Liberal (LBL), Colorado Springs (QTL), and Colby (CBK).

Real Estate Agents Specializing in Colorado Land, Farms and Ranches

Gene Cruikshank, Broker/President, Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802 . Cruikshank Realty is located at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. Specializing in Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales , Management, Auctions, and Exchanges. Licensed in Colorado and surrounding states of Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, and New Mexico.

Time to Escape Cities? Try Lamar House for Sale for a Country Lifestyle

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:25:10 GMT

Time to Escape Cities? Try Lamar House for Sale for a Country Lifestyle

Give yourself a break from big cities. Look to a smaller Colorado town and a house for sale in Lamar . The historic town of Lamar sits in the southeastern corner of the Centennial State. In addition to lying Along major highways in Prowers County, Lamar puts you in the middle of an agricultural hub along the Santa Fe Trail. Highway 287 and Highway 50 stretch from Mexico to Canada and the East to West Coast.

Another advantage to escaping from the city will be affordability. Where in Denver or Colorado Springs can you find a home price under $300,000 with low taxes? Lamar! This Lamar property is one. As Lamar is the seat of Prowers County, folks come in from the smaller communities to shop and take care of business. Purchasing this Lamar home could, in fact, assist with your financial goals, too.

Lamar House for Sale

Address: 1509 S. 11th St., Lamar, CO 81052
Listing ID: 212242
Price: $275,000

This property features 0.311 acres, one of the bigger lots snatched up in 1973. Recently upgraded, the interior of the 1344 square foot ranch-style home for sale might wow you with its quality features. You’ll love the space with the vaulted ceilings and open floor concept, providing wonderful natural light. Three bedrooms and two baths, including a huge master (12’9″ by 23’3″), accommodate a growing family or office space.

And get a load of the new embellishments in the completely remodeled home with quartz countertops and jetted tubs. You’ll even find a touch sensor LED bathroom mirror with a defogger and Bluetooth! The home also features new floor coverings, new paint, and walk-in closets. But there’s more. How about gold accents? Homes & Gardens magazine reports that designers say gold makes a “harmonious balance between vintage and contemporary elements.” Just the right statement.

Let’s talk about the oversized lot. The lot measures 87′ x 155.5′, offering 13,528 total square feet. Sprinkler systems help keep the front and back yards green during warmer months. Inside the fenced backyard are mature trees and a two-car detached garage.

Lamar’s Country Lifestyle and Activities

Reduce your stress levels with a little slower life pace. The population of 7700 helps. In Lamar, neighbors still stop to greet each other, and cows still graze in the pasture. People come out to root for the home team at school sporting events. You can visit the Lamar downtown movie theater and library any day.

The regional rodeos and the rodeo parade might catch your fancy. And you can get to John Martin Reservoir for a little boating or hiking in minutes. People hunt. Lamar offers quality programs for all ages. Start with recreation, parks, skate park, swimming pool with huge slide, and a walking loop. Add Arts and crafts, athletics, and fitness programs. Youth play soccer, golf, football, volleyball, and kickball.

If you have students, this Lamar CO property for sale nestles into a residential neighborhood in the Re-2 School District.

Real Estate Agents – Lamar CO Houses for Sale

Call Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802 during the day or email Amanda Spitz at amanda@2cr2.com anytime. Find Cruikshank Realty offices at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. The real estate firm enjoys decades of the Lamar lifestyle.

Lake Recreation Year-round near SE Colorado Properties

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:24:59 GMT

Lake Recreation Year-round near SE Colorado Properties

Lamar, Colorado sits in the Lower Arkansas River Valley. In 25 minutes, our residents can be picnicking at the John Martin Reservoir State Park and Wilderness Area. We can enjoy watersports, swimming, fishing, and year-round recreation there.

Since opening in 1948, word has gotten out. People from southeastern Colorado properties meet tourists here—all basking in the fresh air, sunshine, and peaceful waters. It’s a fun retreat. John Martin Reservoir next to Lake Hasty, too, adding more natural resources. During any season, John Martin Reservoir State Park stands as one of the best Colorado state parks.

Size and Scope of John Martin Reservoir

Set along the Arkansas River, the average depth of the reservoir is 5-10 feet. However, the maximum depth is sixty feet. It includes over 11,658 surface acres. The reservoir is used for flood control, irrigation, and recreation.

In this area of the High Desert Prairie, the water’s elevation measures 3852 feet. High rocky bluffs and short prairie grasses form the John Martin Reservoir State Park. The dry habitat encourages a large variety of flora and fauna. Note the Yucca used by Native American tribes in previous eras. Interested parties could identify the sagebrush, prickly pear cactus, Buffalo grasses, and trees.

Recreation at John Martin Reservoir

Below find a list of enjoyable activities available at John Martin Reservoir State Park. Think of quiet activities. Places outside the park welcome hunting and OHVing.

Picnics: Available on a first-come-first-served basis, picnic tables offer shaded spaces for meals. Be sure to make reservations for large picnic areas if needed. Call the Visitor Center

Boating: Water sport enthusiasts come with all kinds of watercraft. Water skiers, jet skiers, and others enjoy the water for most of the year. Only hand-launched vessels like canoes and kayaks, sailboats, and small motorboats can roam Lake Hasty.

Fishing: Fish from the shoreline or by boat at John Martin Reservoir State Park. Lake Hasty is stocked. Anglers discover a variety of fish species from the Arkansas River.

Swimming: On summer days, people head to the beach at blue-watered Lake Hasty for a dip. Swim wherever the signs guide you. Nearby facilities to accommodate your swim group. Swimmers at John Martin Reservoir must wear lifejackets.

Birding: Birders consider this a top place in Colorado to watch: the birds. There are 373 cataloged species, including endangered and threatened birds.

Hiking: An extensive trail system leads to viewing wildlife and ancient native rock carvings. Visit the Red Shin Trail, a 4.5-mile meandering path through the Prairie grass and wetlands around Lake Hasty. On the north side of the reservoir, the short Santa Fe Trail passes historic canals and rock carvings. Wildlife, such as dear rabbits and antelope, frequent the area– along with coyotes, rabbits, raccoons, squirrels, and prairie dogs. Please keep pets on six-foot leashes.

Biking: Cyclists enjoy the roads that pass through the grounds of the park during any time of the year.

Disc Golf: On the east side of Lake Hastie sits a nine-hole disc golf course. The course map is available at the Visitor Center.

Geocaching: If you know how to participate, join people of all ages using hand-held GPS units to discover one of the caches hidden throughout John Martin Reservoir State Park by Eagle Scout. Anyone new to this hobby can contact the park’s office to rent a GPS device.

Camping: John Martin Reservoir State Park offers reservations camping at La Junta KOA (50-amp service for rigs), The Point Campground (104 basic campsites), Lake Hasty Campground (109 campsites).

History

John Martin, a US representative from Colorado, successfully advocated for legislation to approve the building of the reservoir on the Arkansas River. The US Army Corps of Engineers flooded the lake in January 1943 before opening in 1948. The communities of Caddoa, Hasty, and Las animus were most affected. To achieve the goal, the government obtained extensive lands and relocated twenty-one miles of track built by Santa Fe Railway.

Adjunct activities and historic studies: Explore the area’s historical landmarks. The first trading history is presented at Bent’s Old Fort. The site of the Sand Creek Massacre reminds us of more somber times. The Legend of Red Shin, a Cheyenne warrior from 1833 got in a fight over an Indian maid. For the occasion, the Dakota Stand stone formation became Red Shin Standing Ground.

Real Estate Agents – SE Colorado Properties

Before you head to John Martin Reservoir State Park or the Wildlife Area, please call (719) 829-1801 for current conditions. If you like a quieter, small-town atmosphere, find out about properties for sale to fit your goals.

Call Gene Cruikshank, Broker/President, and the team at Cruikshank Realty (719) 336-7802 . Schedule an appointment or stop in at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052.

2023 Springtime SE Colorado Real Estate Market in Lamar

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 23:51:19 GMT

2023 Springtime SE Colorado Real Estate Market in Lamar

Springtime puts SE Colorado real estate goes into high gear. Some homeowners decide to sell and others look to buy. We’re starting to see those homebuyers poking up in the spring real estate market in the Lamar area.

Are You Selling your Home?

Now could be your time to move up, move on, or move in. If you’d like a little bigger house, let’s get your current house ready for the 2023 real estate market. See below some Lamar homes for sale listed by Cruikshank Realty right now. We know of others coming soon, too. While selling your Lamar house, our alert Realtors will be coordinating the timing. Then hopefully, you’ll move effortlessly into the more suitable home for you and your family.

If you plan to relocate in the area, our licensed real estate agents offer licenses and connections in Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas. We will be happy to facilitate. We can also sell your Lamar home after you leave.

Now, if you’re relocating from across the good ole U.S.A., give us a call. Are you coming to find a quieter place away from the city? Are you coming to raise your children in a small town? Do you have friends and relatives in Lamar? And what size home and property are you looking for? Let’s talk about your real estate goals in southeastern Colorado, your dreams and needs.

Current Lamar Real Estate for Sale

We can show you around Lamar to introduce the neighborhoods. One of the largest is Willow Valley subdivision in Lamar. Willow Valley features large lots and recreational amenities. At this time, we are privileged to represent two listings in Willow Valley.

These properties feature three bedrooms, three baths, and two car garages. The first, a beautifully updated a red brick home sits on 0.22 acres. The address is 1210 Parkview Ave. and the listing price is $290,000. Need more space? How about 0.545 acres and a 2430 square foot Adobe home. Built in 1983, the home’s Spanish architecture and elegant styling may catch your fancy. List Price $380,000.

Nearby Homes for Sale

We can delve into properties to find a match in your price point to fit your goals. Do you want land? Currently, Cruickshank Realty lists a home for sale in McClave, Colorado. Located down the road from Lamar, this property includes 17.5 acres of land and a beautiful 2019 home with a full basement. The listing price of $369,000 for this home in McClave will get a city dweller out of a condo and on to workable land in southeastern Colorado.

Another easy choice, downtown living in the small town of Eads, Colorado. You can get into a totally updated two-bedroom, one-bath cottage in a quiet Eads neighborhood for $160,000.

In Eads, Colorado, a recently totally updated two-bedroom, one bath cottage nestles into a quiet neighborhood. The price? $160,000.

Real Estate Companies in SE Colorado

To speak with one of our residential specialists, call Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802 . Cruikshank Realty is located at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052.

Absolute Land Auction Soon: Over 1000 Acres in Texas County OK

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 23:51:18 GMT

Absolute Land Auction Soon: Over 1000 Acres in Texas County OK

Come to the Absolute Land Auction March 24, 2023, and bid on agricultural land in the Oklahoma Panhandle. The 1080+/- Acre section includes separate tracts with irrigated circles. Dryland and grass fill in the rest. This real estate auction includes three individual tracts sold by Low Colorado Farms Partnership, LLLP. Tracts will not be combined.

Now dormant, these properties previously produced grass, wheat, corn, and grain sorghum. This land auction sale will be held in conjunction with two other parcels being auctioned on the same day at the same location. So, it’s potentially a big day for all you auction lovers. See you in two weeks.

Absolution Land Auction Details

When : 10:30 a.m. CDT on Friday, March 24, 2023
Location : Morton County Civic Center, Elkhart, KS
Down : 10 percent with balance on or before May 4, 2023
Closing : On or before May 4, 2023

Land Tracts for Sale in Texas County OK

Tracts OK4, OK5, and OK6 will be offered on the same day in the same location. Taxes run low on these agricultural parcels.

Tract OK4 includes 328.5 acres at the land auction. 244 acres of irrigated land and 87.18+/- of dryland.
Tract OK5 includes 592.88 acres at the auction; 323.66 acres irrigated, 207.27 acres dryland.
Tract OK6 adds 160 acres to the auction. 107.57 irrigated acres and 34.14+ dryland acres.

Water and Irrigation Resources

All irrigation sprinklers, with the exception of the motors, will be transferred with the sale of the property.

Tract OK4 features three irrigation wells tenant-rated to be pumping a total 575 GPM. The tract also features an 8-tower Zimmatic a 7-tower Zimmatic.
Tract OK 5 comes with five irrigation wells and a 16-tower Valley sprinkler with two extra sections–tenant rated to be pumping 1000 GPM.
Tract OK6 comes with two irrigation wells tenant-rated to be pumping a total of 550 GPM. A 7-tower Valley sprinkler comes with this tract.

Lifestyle in Texas County, Oklahoma

Rightfully named, Texas County, Oklahoma, borders the North Texas Panhandle. Mostly flat, it spans over 2000 square miles of the High Plains in the Great Plains region. You’ll find lots of farmers and cattle ranchers in the area as well as other agricultural setups. When it comes to wheat, cattle, hogs, and grain sorghums, Texas County tops charts in the USA for county production. No wonder area grain elevators made it into the National Register of Historic Places.

The population hovers around 20,000. Oklahoma Panhandle State College of Agriculture and Applied Science and Oklahoma Panhandle State University in Goodwell encourage new generations to join the historic agricultural legacy in Texas County.

The north Canadian River or Beaver River flows through the county. Oklahoma designates this part of its Panhandle as Red Carpet Country for tourists. The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation manages the Optima National Wildlife Refuge and the Optima Lake project in Texas County. Texas County, Oklahoma, lies in the Hugoton-Panhandle natural gas field.

Transportation Access

Transportation arteries through Texas County include US Highways 54, 56, 64, and 412. State Highways 3, 94, 95, and 136 provide easy access. There’s also municipal airport and Guymon, Oklahoma.

Auctioneers Land, Farms and Ranches in SE Colorado

For more information, please call Gene Cruikshank, Broker/President, Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802 . Schedule an appointment or drop by Cruikshank Realty to visit. Find Cruikshank Realty at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. Specializing in Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales, Management, Auctions, and Exchanges.

Bill E. Newman Real Estate Broker and Auctioneer, Guymon, OK (the Texas County seat) will be there, too. It should be fun!

SE Colorado Farms Present Lifestyle Quest

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 23:51:16 GMT

SE Colorado Farms Present Lifestyle Quest

SE Colorado farms and ranches offer a hearty lifestyle. For sure. Farmers necessarily learn to endure our rough-and-tumble weather patterns. Farming here presents quests every day. Hard-won crowns may only be noticed by the “knights” who embark upon the quest. Hence, it’s often an inner quest.

Colorado Farms to Test your Mettle

Most people can barely keep tiny gardens blooming. The knightly farmer, however, learns to multiply his skill sets, fields, and productivity. Now, when the weather patterns shift, if it doesn’t rain much, if there is a late spring freeze. Pioneers also faced the same tests we get on our modern-day farms in Colorado.

Farming and ranching test one’s mettle. We all fact challenges. For our Colorado farmers, these challenges are physical. Moving irrigation pipes takes time and energy. Combating insects or wildlife infestations, can we be the victor?

Flexible Lifestyle

How does a farmer respond to changing variables? At times we need to study possibilities. We need to be ingenious and creative. We need to be resourceful with our neighbors, networking and finding out what has worked for others.

For example, some acreage may need to be repurposed. We need to study the soil, seeds, and make judgments based on what we know. And we need to act. In those action steps, to be successful.

At times, the farmer needs to throw on extra water or harvest early. The farmer might need to change crops or adjust water sources. Yes, operating farms in southeastern Colorado comes with challenges and rewards.

When You are Called to Farming

Each farmer needs to assess his motivations, resolve, and determination to carry on. If you’re interested in operating one of our spacious Colorado farms for sale, set your jaw, break in your boots, and see how the country lifestyle increases your prana and strength. It’s a calling. It’s a quest.

Looking to Buy a Farm in SE Colorado?

Take advantage of a price drop. Working irrigated Colorado farms will give you a head start. Let’s look at the Melcher Farm in Powers County. It sizable at 478.78 acres. And it’s close to Holly, Colorado. It’s three irrigation wells enable 372 acres to be sprinkler irrigated. The farm includes an added 99.46 acres of dry cropland.

Richfield silt loam and Ulysses silt loam, some of the highest producing in the area, form a good soil base. What grows or has grown most recently? Corn, wheat, grain sorghum, and sunflowers. The Holly, Colorado Farm lies off State Highway 89, and all-whether County maintained road. In addition, the price improvement is enticing: $1,600,000 for your own Colorado farmland.

For a sizable farm, look a little farther south to the 6332-acre Fry Farm in Keyes, Oklahoma. It’s a gorgeous, irrigated farm in Cimarron County. $16,000,000.

Brokers – SE Colorado Farms and Ranches

Contact Gene Cruikshank, Broker/President, Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802 . Gene specializes in Farms and Ranches, real estate sales , management, auctions, and exchanges. Schedule an appointment or stop at Cruikshank Realty 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052.

More SE Colorado Farms for Sale

Prowers County S&L Cattle, LLC feed yard and 370+ acres at 38252 County Road 8, Lamar, CO. $4,500,000

303.4-acre farm for crops and grazing at 34510 CR Kk, Cheraw, CO. $1,200,000

Elbert County, 480 acres dry farm and grazing land in Limon, CO. $615,000

80 Acres at 2800 Block Lane 7, Olney Springs, CO. $130,000

Brown Farm for sale 636+ acres with home at 19478 CR 2W, Limon, CO. $950,000

Escape City Home Prices to our Charming Lamar Colorado Homes

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 23:51:15 GMT

Escape City Home Prices to our Charming Lamar Colorado Homes

If you thirst for a small-town country lifestyle, Lamar Colorado homes might peak your interest. Historic Lamar puts you in the Arkansas Valley of southeastern Colorado. Wide open spaces, rolling hills, fields of plenty surround our agricultural community. Properties for sale fit today’s streamlined budgets.

Lamar real estate gives you a sense of place. Our population waivers about around 7600. That includes enough big hearts to welcome tourists passing north/south and east/west through our community. We sit along the Santa Fe Trail.

In Lamar, you’ll escape big city prices and make it easier for your family to head off inflation. Come here to start a garden or raise chickens or start a little farm. For example, we can show you half-acre and acre lots for under $20,000 each. Prices for several mid-20th century homes for sale right in town range in the low to mid $200,000s. Per square foot, you’ll find $103-$142. And they have no HOA fees, an extra way to save.

Lamar Colorado Homes for Sale

MLS: #R209732 . Address: 8 Cedar Hills, Lamar, CO 81052. Price: $245,000.
On a cul de sac in a good neighborhood, this property offers formal living and family room bathed in natural light. Three bed, two bath home featuring 1610 square feet and a 1-car garage. This home also features a full, partially finished basement. Equipped with a sprinkler system, you’ll enjoy the spacious 70′ x 134′ lot in Cedar Hills Subdivision.

MLS: #R205778 . Address: 504 S. 12th St., Lamar, CO 81052. Price: $235,000.
Here’s an upgraded four bedroom, two bath ranch style home featuring 1655 square feet and a 2-car garage. you’ll love the original wood floors. the home and great backyard sit on a 50′ x 140′ lot in Maxwell’s Addition.

MLS: #R207235 . Address: 3602 Memorial Drive, Lamar, CO 81052. Price: $229,000.
You’ll enjoy remodeled aspects of this tri-level home. It offers three bedrooms, two baths, and a two-car garage. Part of the Country Village South subdivision, the home and its completely fenced yard sit on a 100′ x 72′ lot.

Comparable Prices in Colorado Cities

As for prices in the closest big cities, let’s compare with Colorado Springs, Aurora, and Denver. Two homes for sale in the same price range found in northeastern Colorado Springs come with significant monthly fees. Imagine paying over $600 a month! And we don’t see any listings today for single family homes in Denver or Aurora. Two homes for sale in Pueblo priced under $250,000 supply only 1,000 square feet of living area. Essentially, nothing compares to our collection of Lamar Colorado homes for sale .

Real Estate Agents Specializing in Colorado Land, Farms and Ranches

For more information, call Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802 . Schedule an appointment or simply stop in at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052.

Relocate to a Little Colorado House on the High Prairie

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 23:51:13 GMT

Relocate to a Little Colorado House on the High Prairie

In Lamar, you can find your affordable Colorado house on the high Prairie. In fact, this is one community where historic older homes in town provide the live/work/play access preferred by many in modern times. Long the hub of an agricultural-based community, Lamar hosts events and activities throughout the year. Case in point, community concerts.

Lamar Colorado could be the place for you. Lamar is a friendly historic town in southeastern Colorado. As you enter Colorado, Lamar Welcome Center on the Santa Fe National Trail welcomes you. South of the Arkansas River, Lamar was founded in 1886 and organized by the Santa Fe Railroad to move cattle. Often named “The Safest City in Colorado,” Lamar also boasts a unique history. It exemplifies life on the frontier and features the Madonna of the Trail Monument.

Three Homes for Sale in Lamar

206 Pine Street, Lamar, CO 81052. List Price: $230,000.
A clean and move-in ready three bedroom/2 bath home in a prime location was sturdily built in the mid-20th century. It’s across the street from the playground, pool, tennis courts, and pathways in Willow Creek Park. The home features restored wood flooring in the bedrooms and brand-new carpet in the living room. The property also features a carport and two-car outdoor shop. You’ll enjoy the nice big yard with the front sprinkler system. Mature trees in the yard and a cozy beauty.

7541 Highway 196, Lamar, CO 81052. List Price: $290,000.
Another three bedroom, two-bath home, this 1970-model home sits outside of town on a fenced acre. Its gated entryway leads to a large yard and gardens around the 1848 square-foot home. It boasts an open floor plan. There’s also a two-car garage and a storage shed.

519 Elm Street, Lamar, CO 810-528-1052. List Price: $129,000.
Here’s a big, tiny home! Move right into this adorable two-bedroom, two bath home. Built in 1908, it features 963 square feet of living area, all freshly painted and ready for you. The fenced lot accommodates your pets and children.

Outdoor Recreation near Lamar Colorado

No worries if you aren’t interested in farming. More options for outdoor recreation create an active lifestyle. Relax in one of the many parks during the day. The Lamar Loop is a 6.2-mile paved trail used by joggers, cyclists, and walkers. Behind Lamar Community College, you’ll find birds along Willow Creek Trail. There is a nine-hole public golf course and a sports complex for baseball and softball.

And you’ll find Lamar to be one of the best places in Colorado for birding. It’s a Monarch City USA. There are over 400 species. Mississippi Kites breed in Willow Creek Park. Hop on to Willow Creek Trail for views of the Northern Cardinal and Red-bellied Woodpecker. There are birds in the Indian Reservoir, John Martin Reservoir, and the Two Buttes State Wildlife Area. Inevitably, the birders come together at the Snow Goose Festival in February.

Interesting Lamar Attractions

When visitors come along, you can take them to a restored 1907 depot and train. At the Big Timbers Museum, they’ll learn about the frontier lifestyle hundred and 50 years ago. Of course, you’ll mention the historic Dust Bowl. Then you’ve got to mention the Fleagle Gang Robbery. You’ll be going by the Petrified Wood Building, the Wind Turbines, 100-year-old windmill, and Pike’s Tower. Got to underscore your Old West credentials, right?

Moving to Lamar Real Estate

There’s definite prairie value in Lamar homes . We’ve give you a few samples of properties for sale in southeastern Colorado. We also offer farms and ranches, homes in newer subdivisions, and vacant parcels. All come with a lot of community camaraderie and old-fashioned fun. Let’s see what we can find for you.

For more information, please call Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802 . Schedule an appointment or stop into Cruikshank Realty to visit at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052.

Buy Yourself a Livestock Feed Yard in Prowers County Colorado

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 23:51:12 GMT

Buy Yourself a Livestock Feed Yard in Prowers County Colorado

We’re introducing an opportunity in the livestock arena. Buy your own commercial cattle feed yard for sale in Lamar, Prowers County, Colorado. Improvements include a 15,000-head support facility on approximately 130 acres. The total 370.91 acres has everything you need for a cattle facility. Price $4.5 million.

The Prowers County property supports a thriving agricultural community. Within a 6-mile radius of the feed yard, you’ll find over 35,000 irrigated acres. Add the 14.5 annual precipitation and you’ll see how the Prowers County economic climate supports cattle and needs a feedlot like S & L Cattle, LLC. Its improvements include buildings.

Location of SE Colorado Feed Yard for Sale

S & L Cattle, LLC feedlot lies about six miles north of Lamar, Colorado. You cannot miss it on the east side of County Road 8 between CR RR and CR SS. The address is 38252 County Road 8, Lamar, Powers County, Colorado.

The Feeding Operation

There are two on-site working wells in the feed yard with a total pumping capacity of 180 gpm. They are about 865 feet deep with the static water level of 470 feet. In addition, there is a third nonoperating well on the land. The water comes from the wells and fills 350 300+/minus gallon storage tanks and then pressure pumped to continuous flow water systems in the pens. Auxiliary storage tanks and pressure tanks are also available.

In addition, the feed yard accesses two certified lagoons. They meet or exceed the CAFO Permit requirements. One is onsite and the other across the county road.

Two Residences

Set up to start at once, this large Lamar farm features two employee houses. Near the pens, a wood frame residence supplies three bedrooms and one bath. It has approximately 1500 square feet of living area and a 1000-square-foot unfinished basement. Also, near the pens, a 1046 square foot residence supplies another two bedrooms and one bath. Built in the early 20th century, each of the homes have been renovated.

Additional Buildings

Manufacturing building: The property features 1170 square feet in a manufacturing building used for offices. The facility includes a reception area, two offices with working areas, and three private offices. The full-service building also features two bathrooms, a kitchen, and a utility and storage room.

Scale house: Associated with the office is a 12′ x 72′ truck platform and its six-ton electronic scale. Another 14′ x 30′ platform livestock scale features a three-ton Fairbanks Morris scale. There’s also 8′ x 12′ scale house. The shipping receiving area and scales includes eight holding and sorting pens plus a loading chute.

Processing building and hospital: A 50′ x 60′ steel frame metal building serves as the processing building. It has a 4-foot concrete stem wall and floor. The metal walls and ceiling sheathed in an insulating spray. It features radiant heat. The building features two overhead doors and a Bowman hydraulic chute attached to a long cattle snake. This processing building is also a hospital facility. The owners are building a 30′ x 40′ facility on concrete in another location that will include these facilities.

Machine shed shop: It measures 40′ x 72′ for a total of 2880 square feet. This slant-wall building has a concrete floor and three overhead doors.

Steel building: Undergoing renovation, a steel building with a concrete floor serves as the feed mill building. It houses three steam flake Denver role Mills with attached steam cabinets. The new facilities will only need one mill. A dried leg delivers process grain from the mill to a forestall 500,000-bushel commodity barn. The facility also has a break room and a boiler room. As mentioned, all the pens have continuous flow watering systems. 106 pipe/cable pens with concrete bunks and aprons are available the pen space allows about 260 square feet per animal.

Commodity barn: A heated and insulated fat tank, elevated supplement tank, three concrete bunker bins, a commodity barn with loading and mixing facilities.

Fuels Storage

Fuel tanks keep the equipment at the cattle feed yard operating. Connected to fuel pumps, the fuel tanks include 3 above-ground with capacity of 12,400 and 11,000 gallons.

Farm and Ranch Real Estate Brokers

For more information, please call Gene Cruikshank, Broker/President, Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802 . Schedule an appointment or stop into Cruikshank Realty is found at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. Specializing in Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales , Management, Auctions, and Exchanges.

Ranches Are Big Farms

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 23:14:45 GMT

Ranches Are Big Farms

If you’re looking for investment land, do you know how to differentiate between ranches or a big farm for sale? The two have many things in common. In fact, technically, all ranches are farms. And both farms and ranches provide food products. Both require industrious farmers and ranchers to maintain them. Owning any large acreage comes with much more work than a city lot.

Difference between Farms and Ranches

There are all different types of farms and even some crossover between farms and ranches.
When you compare the two, you’ll find – acre for acre – farms are more concise and ranches more spread out. We still find some large farms and some small ranches.

While farms produce agricultural products, they may raise livestock who also. The farm’s function is to facilitate agricultural goals and resources. In general, farms produce crops just as ranches usually raise cattle, sheep, or goats.

On a farm, the farmer needs to save himself some steps. Most consolidate activities to a main area. This facilitates the production and storage and dissemination of the agricultural products. In contrast, ranches may be so large that sources of water and feed is available around the acreage. In that case, livestock do not need to return to a central barn every day.

Similarities between Farms and Ranches

There are commercial farms, giant spreads focusing on few crops. And there are small farms, usually personal and often family owned for generations.

The purpose of the work on the farm focuses on tending the land, maintaining soil, or keeping livestock alive. So, we see livestock farms, horse farms, poultry farms, dairy farms, crop farms, a mixture of crops and animals, and everything in between.

Ranches for Livestock

Western ranches tend to be exceptionally large. Livestock is the main product on a ranch. The primary duties of ranchers will be raising and selling livestock. However, some ranchers have added other activities to their properties–hunting, equestrian activities, fishing, ATV riding, and more.

Ranches need to be big to provide extensive land for grazing. About 2.5 acres per cow. Think about the tasks and equipment required to tend animals on a large ranch. Ranchers will need to be provide nutritious pastures. This takes studying the soil, water sources, needs of the animals, and the weather patterns. Animals will graze in many areas over the course of time.

Business of Ranching

Ranchers must also be business minded. They need to buy cattle, sell cattle, and oversee a healthy reproductive cycle. Ranchers find themselves continually upgrading the land and improvements. They maintain equipment and build improvements. For example, they build and mend fences, grade roads and cut trails. `Ranchers establish and protect water supplies and sources. If they operate calving facilities, they will be scrutinizing the ground, fencing, pens, and buildings to ensure the safety of the animals and ranch help. They develop feed sources, including planting hay or nutritious pastures. Yes, they may also keep horses, horse stables, and venture out to move cows on horseback—or 4-wheelers.

How to Shop for Big Farms and Ranches

When it comes time to buying one of these large pieces of land, take the time to investigate thoroughly.

Call (719) 336-7802 or stop by the office at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052 for a visit. Heading up our Farm and Ranch division, Gene comes with personal farming experience along with years of transactions with both farms and ranches.

Your Southeastern Colorado Real Estate Specialists at Cruikshank Realty, Inc. in Lamar, CO serve clients in a broad area. Gene Cruikshank holds licenses for Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. We guide you to real estate investment to best suit your goals. Services range from normal private treaty marketing to Land Auctions.

80-AC Vacant Land Investment in Colorado for Farm or Ranch

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 23:14:44 GMT

80-AC Vacant Land Investment in Colorado for Farm or Ranch

Do you need a safety latch in rough economic times? How about a land investment in Colorado ? Start your own farm or ranch in Olney Springs where we have affordable prices. Priced at $130,000 for 80 acres with over 47 acres of rangeland. In addition, the owners are amenable to splitting the property.

This farm and ranch land offers a clean white page. Are you searching for a small equestrian property in southern Colorado? It wouldn’t take much to add a pole barn, stables, ranch house, fencing and a few horses on this prairie land. Add an arena for some serious Eventing training. If you are local, these 80 acres offer space for running some cow/calf pairs. You’ll note some trees along the borders of the property. The Arkansas Valley welcomes livestock and farm animals as well as cropland.

Address: Lane 7, Olney Springs, CO 81062
MLS #: S205349
AC: 80 acres or two 40-acre tracts
List Price: $130,000, and low property taxes of $384

Olney Springs Lifestyle

Olney Springs, a small farming community of 350 residents, sits in southwestern Crowley County, Colorado. It’s a sleepy ranching community about 38 miles east of Pueblo. The Olney Springs post office opened in 1909, naming the town after a railroad official.

Build a home in Olney Springs and you’ll be not too far from the Best Big City of Colorado Springs. Closer you’ll find the community of Ordway, the seat of Crowley County. Ordway’s population is triple that of Olney Springs.

Crowley County Land and History

Crowley County includes 800 square miles. Major highways traverse the county. State highways 71, 96, 167, and 207 among them. There are several lakes, the largest being Lake Meredith. In addition, the Arkansas River and the Transamerica Trail Bicycle Route run through the county.

Long ago, a canal from the Arkansas River provided irrigation, turning the early settlement into lush agricultural lands. Alas, later settlers sold the water, reestablishing the original Prairie grassland. Crowley County Heritage Center tells the story of those days and affiliation with the correctional industry.

The Colorado legislature created Crowley County from the northern part of Otero County in 1911. The area became settled after them Missouri Pacific Railroad extended its route to Pueblo during the Colorado Gold Rush. Populated towns around the railroad route such as Olney Springs, Crowley, Ordway, and Sugar City sprang up.

Directions – Olney Springs Land for Sale

From Highway 96, go south on Lane 7. The northwest corner of the acreage lies three-quarters of a mile down the road.

South-Central Colorado Realtors

Call Cruikshank Realty, Inc. at (719) 336-7802 for more information about this vacant land for sale in Olney Springs, Colorado.

Great Big Home – Lovely Springfield CO Real Estate

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 23:14:42 GMT

Great Big Home – Lovely Springfield CO Real Estate

Get a sense of affordable space by checking out this great big home in the Springfield CO real estate market. Sturdily built in 1923, this unique home for sale is part of the Springfield subdivision. It sits on three lots within walking distance of the hospital.

You’ll love the updates and the carriage-house charm with midcentury touches. Move-in ready, the home could also be a candidate for an exciting makeover. You choose. It has great bones, layout, and built-in shelves.

Address: 245 E 10th Street, Springfield, CO 81073
MLS #: R203814A
Price: $239,000

Details – Springfield CO Real Estate

The 125 x 140 Springfield CO property gives you 17,500 square feet or 0.402 acres to roam or build a shop. The front and back yard sprinkler systems help maintain the landscapes. Ready to accommodate your Colorado living, the Springfield home features three bedrooms, two baths and covered parking for two vehicles.

The interior offers over 3000 square feet total. 2093 ft.² are on the main level. This main part of the house features a sizable living room, a dining room, and the kitchen plus large master bedroom and two additional bedrooms, the bathrooms, and a remodeled laundry room. The office and huge family room in the lower level provide unlimited options for the new owners.

The home features two separate heating and air conditioning systems with central heat and air. Recent updates include windows, bathrooms, kitchen, electrical, and plumbing.

Springfield Colorado: 47 miles South of Lamar

Home to 1500 residents, Springfield is the county seat. It’s the most populous town in Baca County, which forms the southeast corner of the State of Colorado. The original townsite began with Jim and Frank Tipton who relocated here from Springfield, Missouri in the late 1800s. They came for more space and the cool semi-arid climate. Springfield’s hot summers come with mild mornings and occasional heavy thunderstorm rains. The winters vary considerably. Weather may be quite balmy and windy or very cold and still—or anywhere in-between.

Springfield is well connected. Highways include U.S. Highway 160 and 385, State Highway 116. From here, you can also follow the Santa Fe National Historic Trail. If you fly, Springfield Municipal Airport is four miles to the north. Route 160 passes just to the south of the town, leading west to Trinidad, Colorado, and east to Johnson City, Kansas. Springfield sits 30 miles north of the Oklahoma state line.

Directions

From Lamar, go east on W Elm St toward S 5th St. Turn right at the 2nd cross street onto US-287 S/US-385 S/S Main St. Continue 47.4 mi. Turn left onto E 10th Ave. Destination will be on the left

Real Estate Agents in Lamar Colorado

Contact Cruickshank Realty, Inc. at (719) 336-7802 for assistance viewing this desirable southeastern Colorado home for sale .

Building a Home on Vacant Land in So. Colorado

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 12:29:39 GMT

Building a Home on Vacant Land in So. Colorado

Think about building a home on your own land. We’ve got low-priced vacant land for sale in Southern Colorado. In an era when the dreams of homeownership seem to flee the grasp of young people, many rent. But USDA loans with zero down payment can bring those dreams back to life. Let’s talk a little about what it takes to build a home and tell you about this option.

Steps to Building a Home

Building a home on your own land is more complicated than buying an existing home or buying in a development. You would bear the entire burden, but you’d also experience the satisfaction in the end. How would you proceed?

Find a reputable, professional builder you trust.
Determine your budget and financing.
Choose a building site.
Select a floorplan.
Fit choices of materials/accessories to your budget.
Purchase blueprints.
Close on construction loan.
Determine payment plan with builder. Keep records.
Order materials.
Excavate.
Build.

Vacant Acreage in So. Colorado

Do you have the determination to build a house on a shoestring budget? How about 41.3 acres for $25K? It’s grazing land right now. But we’ve got rural acreage east of Walsenburg, Colorado. It’s Lot 134 in the Tyrone Hills Subdivision and San Isabel Electric serves this area.

Any building sites feature fabulous views of the mountains. To the west, Cucharas Canyon and the Spanish Peaks catch the marvelous sunsets. Juniper trees and Cedar trees add dimension to the property. There’s space for a shop, summer crops, horses, or other animals.

Low prices often come with challenges like these:

Challenge #1: Water. This is a rectangular shaped parcel currently involved in a grazing lease. Although there are two wells on the adjacent property, this one needs a well.

Challenge #2: Access. Officially, the parcel is accessible from CR 123 on a subdivision road. But the road was never built! So, access needs to be negotiated.

Directions to this vacant acreage for sale in Walsenburg: Take Highway 10 from Walsenburg east for 15 miles. On CR 123, turn north and continue 4.5 miles. Then turn left/west and continue 1.75 miles then southwest on CR 124 for 1.25 miles to Lot #134 Tyrone Hills, Walsenburg, CO 81089.

Walsenburg – Huerfano County Real Estate

Huerfano County Colorado is at a historic crossroads. South of Pueblo and north of the New Mexico border. Interstate 25 passes north/south. US Route 160 climbs North La Veta Pass to Alamosa. Highway 10 goes northeast on the way to this 40+ acre parcel and continues to La Junta. The county is populated with farms and ranches, sprinkled with teleworkers and recreationalists.

Homes in historic Walsenburg, the county seat, include older in-town properties and newer subdivisions outside town. Walsenburg’s 4000 residents enjoy local shopping and restaurants, attractions, and beautiful outdoors destinations. They water ski, fish, and boat on Horseshoe Lake, golf at Lathrop State Park, and cool off at the local waterpark.

Cruikshank Realty, Inc. – Southern Colorado Real Estate

Cruikshank Realty, Inc. offers residential, farm, and ranch land in Southern Colorado. Call Broker/Owner Gene Cruikshank or Associate Broker John Stroh II in the Lamar office at (719) 336-7802 .

Newest Lamar Home Sits on An Acre – Landscape or Garden?

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 12:29:38 GMT

Newest Lamar Home Sits on An Acre – Landscape or Garden?

This newest Lamar home for sale sits on over an acre outside of the city limits. The one-level manufactured home features an open floor plan with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths with 1056 square feet. The light and bright kitchen opens to a dining area and living room. Price: $167,000, low taxes!

It’s move-in ready. The dove gray walls and crisp white trim blend with any style furniture. In the kitchen, you’ll love the new black appliances, hard-surface counters, and bright cabinets with wood cabinets in the two full baths. Laminate flooring in the living areas and carpet in the bedrooms. The home features refrigerated central air, electric heat, and a gas stove. This affordable western Lamar property graces Arkansas Valley.

Landscaping, Gardening, or Both

It’s all about space and private at this home. The lot measures 43,680 square feet which is just over an acre. Dimensions of 208 feet by 210 feet mean enough space for gardening. While gardeners use raised garden bins to save the back and support vines, the fertilized soil works simply fine around Lamar. There will be space for planting rows of fruits and vegetables, too. How about corn, green beans, and yellow beans, kale and lettuce, strawberries, and tomatoes.

At this great price, the new owners could have fun landscaping. Why not create a little oasis? Fencing lined with random layers of bushes and flowering plants would pretty-up the back. Add a couple of fruit trees and a pine tree for year round enjoyment. Edging pavers winding around the home could separate out a drought tolerant garden. Anyone can check for landscaping resources such as “Front yard on a Budget” or “65 Best Landscaping Ideas on a Budget.”

Add a Building Next to Your Lamar Home

You may be thinking you’d like an outbuilding. Certainly, the acre lot could accommodate an ancillary building or pole barn–a garden shed or a multipurpose garage.

A Bit About Lamar

Historic Lamar sprang up during the movement West in the mid-1800s. It sits at the crossroads of Highways 50 and 385. The established community offers a quiet friendly lifestyle. To spruce it up, residents attend dedicated events, church and school events. Outings to the Arkansas River and nearby trail systems and hunting grounds come easily under the rich blue skies of Prowers County in southeast Colorado.

Directions

From Lamar, take Highway 287 west to Maple Street and continue to Rodeo Drive/CR HH5. The property is on the south side of the road.

Lamar Real Estate Agents

Call Cruikshank Realty, Inc. (719) 336-7802 for more information about this Lamar home and real estate . Cruikshank Realty promises unparalleled professionalism to Buyers and Sellers.

How Real Estate Agents Help First Time Home Buyers

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 12:29:38 GMT

How Real Estate Agents Help First Time Home Buyers

Buying a home can be tricky. If you’ve never bought a home before, please visit with real estate agents that can guide you. A home is a big investment. So, start off by talking to realtors. These professionals help buyers zero-in on the best options, given the parameters, and help you achieve the best results.

Code of Ethics for Real Estate Agents

Realtors with the National Association of Realtors are bound by a code of ethics, enforceable by penalty. Honesty is king. If a property has a problem, your realtor® will make certain you know about it. He or she will also study to discern any false advertising associated with a property and look to understand if a home is over- or underpriced. In addition, real estate agents should be able to tell you if the property will hold its value.

Find Out Your Budget

Refrain from looking at properties until you’ve figured out your honest-to-goodness budget. In the meantime, get prequalified for a loan amount (unless you’re paying cash). Then decide what monthly payment you are comfortable with considering your other expenses.

Tell Your Realtor Your Needs

Now when you speak with your agent, you’ll know the price range of the properties to consider. Also bring a list of your five top priorities and five things on your wish list. For example, you may need 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, 1500 square feet of living area, and a big yard. How about a basement?

Do you need to be near your employment? While it would be nice to be within walking distance of an elementary school, would you be willing to use the bus or drive? Do you dream of a new and modern house, or do you want to be in a charming older home near downtown? How about a mother-in-law suite or a guest house?

At Cruikshank Realty, Inc. we’ll search for the perfect property and cut misfits. Our experienced team knows residential real estate and farm and ranch possibilities to broaden your horizons. We’ll make the experience of being a first-time homebuyer faster for you.

Realtors Offers Area Knowledge

Another benefit of working with a real estate agent comes from the person’s knowledge of the area. Our agents know small communities from the Front Range to Lamar and the outlying areas. Say you’re wanting a small farm but have not settled on a town. We’ll let you know about neighborhoods, community life, even soil quality and equestrian activities.

Realtors will know of properties not showing up in the MLS, often from colleagues who mention them. Occasionally, a seller will not want to publicly list his property for sale, often for personal reasons.

Finally, realtors know about codes and zoning. So, if you need to remodel or repurpose, the agent should be able to be sure you would be within local ordinances.

Realtors Negotiate

Qualified real estate agents will be negotiating from start to finish. Buyers often save money and headaches. Costs may be negotiated, and agents have an eye for problems and solutions. For example, is the title clear?

If a property needs repairs, the agent can recommend a good inspector and request repairs. Little repairs can be overlooked while others may be deal breakers. For example, mold. At times, buyers would rather the agent negotiate a lower price and they will take care of the repairs.

More importantly, being a step removed, real estate agents keep their cool during negotiations. They’re so cool they can take the frustration of the seller when dealing with points, closing, repairs, and other brass tacks.

Paperwork Unlimited

An organized professional can also help first-time homebuyers keep up with the multitude of documents needed for the transaction. Written offer, written and signed counteroffer, repair documents, sale inclusions. Agents can send and receive documents for the buyer and seller . Also, they likely keep records of the entire transaction for future reference.

SE Colorado Real Estate Agents

Call Cruikshank Realty, Inc. (719) 326-7802 or stop by our offices at 20 South Main Street, Lamar, Colorado.

Motel: Commercial CO Real Estate in Cheyenne Wells

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 12:29:37 GMT

Motel: Commercial CO Real Estate in Cheyenne Wells

There is an interesting opportunity to own commercial CO real estate on US Route 40. Buy a 28-unit motel in the business district of Cheyenne Wells, Colorado. For the price of a single-family home elsewhere, you can own this country motel and owner’s residence.

Run it as a motel, a Bed and Breakfast, lodging with meals if you like to cook, offices. Or go all out and turn it into a memorable tourist attraction.

Details – Motel for Sale in Colorado

This friendly Cheyenne Wells motel sits on a 130’ x 280’ lot (0.836 acres). It features 28 rooms and 14688 square feet of living areas. Currently, the motel offers daily to monthly rates and options from full size rooms to efficiencies. Parts built in 1955 and 1980 have been updated. The building features new roofing and sewer lines and new flooring. Central cooling and window units, baseboard and radiant heating keep guests comfortable.

Owners or managers have use of a larger space. The 2000-square-foot residence features a stone wall fireplace, granite counter tops, and ample storage space.

Address: 500 Hwy 40, Cheyenne Wells, CO 80810
MLS#: 199665A
Price: $475,000

Cheyenne Wells and Cheyenne County, Colorado

The seat of Cheyenne County, Cheyenne Wells, Colorado is a friendly historic town of about 900 residents. Named for the Cheyenne who preserved water wells nearby, the community brings a distinct historic vibe. Area trails give us a sense of routes trod during the 1800s. All rural, Cheyenne County spans almost 2000 miles, and the population is only about 2000.

Travelers come in search of the unique landmarks in southeastern Colorado. For example, southwest of Cheyenne Wells, there’s the antipodal to an island in the Indian Ocean, Ile Saint-Paul. Also nearby is Ladder Creek Helium Plant, one of only 14 helium plants in the world.

Cheyenne Wells sits at 4,291 foot elevations. Summits include Agate Mond, Eureka Hill, Landsman Hill, and Twin Buttes. All fall between 4400 to 4700 feet. But one point of the county reaches a mile high.

Basins and creeks in Cheyenne County supply interesting terrain for hikers. Bellyache Basin, Big Timber, East and Middle Fork, Big Spring, Goose, Little Spring, Turtle, and Wild Horse to name a handful. Smoky Hill River drains into the Republican River in Kansas. Other creeks drain into the Arkansas River.

Note: US Route 40 is not to be confused with Interstate 40 that follows the iconic Route 66 on a more southern route across the USA.

Motel for Sale on US Route 40

This Cheyenne Wells motel for sale has seen a variety of travelers crisscrossing the United States. U.S. Route 40 goes east/west across the United States. Built in 1926, it was one of the first U.S. highways. The route was built on top of several older highways, most notably the National Road and the Victory Highway. The National Road was created in 1806 by an act of Congress and Union Pacific Railroad runs parallel to it in Cheyenne Wells.

US 40 now crosses a total of 12 states. Currently beginning outside Salt Lake City, Utah, the route enters Colorado, then Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, and New Jersey. Major cities including Denver, Kansas City, St. Louis, Indianapolis, Columbus, Baltimore, and Wilmington.

US Route 40 runs parallel to or concurrently with other highways, the Oregon Trail in Kansas, and other famous routes. In the western United States, Interstates 80 and 70 have superseded part of the original route.

Directions to Commercial CO Real Estate for Sale

From Lamar, go north on 385. Turn left on US 40 towards Cheyenne Wells. The Cheyenne Wells motel for sale is on the left side of the street.

Southeastern Colorado Real Estate Agents

Call Cruikshank Realty, Inc. in Lamar at (719) 336-7802 for more information about this motel opportunity. Ask us about Inventory, Profit & Loss, and Seller’s Disclosures. Our agents strive to guide clients to reaching their real estate goals.

Buy Acreage in Colorado and Build Yourself a Country Lifestyle

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 12:29:35 GMT

Buy Acreage in Colorado and Build Yourself a Country Lifestyle

People are buying more acreage in Colorado . This 2022 trend sends buyers searching in unusual places searching for vacant land at decent prices. They’ll even go for wide open farmland to build homes and garden. In addition, the storybook farmhouse needs chickens, goats, sheep, cows, and horses, right? That’s why vacant lots right in town may be too small. And buyers are willing to toy with the idea of moving to rural areas for the agricultural zoning that welcomes dreams of self-sufficiency.

Are you one of these city folks who ponder life away from the crowd? We’ve studied and lived the country lifestyle and now broker Southern Colorado real estate . For generations, the region has developed land grants into full-fledged farms and ranches. We look out over thousands of acres of fields and vacant agricultural land. Matter of fact, we’ll keep an eye out for the agricultural land to fit your goals. Here’s one example east of Pueblo, Colorado in the small town of Boone.

For Sale: Acreage in Colorado near Pueblo

If your family seeks acreage in Colorado, this Boone Colorado land for sale could be of interest. It’s like a blank page, ready for you to develop your story. What would you do on 151 acres under the big blue skies? Dormant for quite a while, how would you revitalize the land? Firing up the 25 horsepower electric motor on the well could be step one.

The seller offers options, which we can discuss. Buyers can buy the entire Pueblo County CO farm or delineated portions. Listing ID#192372. Price options: $380,000, $200,000, or $50,000.

Getting to Know the Pueblo County Community

Where is Pueblo County? A couple of hours south of Denver and an hour south of Colorado Springs. Pueblo County, Colorado encompasses 2400 square miles along the Front Range Urban Corridor. Two-thirds of the 170,000 residents live in Pueblo, the county seat. Boone and Rye, Pueblo County’s only two incorporated towns, are in the country. If you were to buy land for sale in Boone, Pueblo would serve as your “big city.”

The area marries profound historic records from crisscrossing civilizations and geographies. Anthropologists have determined dinosaurs frequented the area, it was a deep-sea at one time, and ancient tribes left signs of their cultures in Southern Colorado also.

Only a century ago, Pueblo was a major economic and social center. A milder climate benefitted its steel and agricultural industries. Other key industries led to the moniker “Saddle-Making Capital of the World.” The railroad assisted in the bringing of people and the distribution of goods. In the service industries, Pablo is well-known for its orphanages, mental health services, and correctional institutions. Nonetheless, the city took hard hits during the Great Blood of 1921 and then the closing down of the steel markets in 1982.

In addition to state highways and Interstate 25, Pueblo County include trails and byways as well as national protected areas. American Discovery Trail, Frontier Pathways National Scenic and Historic Byway, and the Trans America Trail and Western Express bicycle routes pass through the area. Tourists come to see sans Isabel National Forest and Greenhorn Mountain Wilderness, often via these designated byways.

Other attractions

The area combines history and recreation. Lake Pueblo State Park, Nature and Wildlife Discovery Center and Pueblo Zoo highlights natural elements. Folks experience the recreation along the Arkansas River kayak course and appreciate the water at the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk.

Since history abounds in the Pueblo area – Ancient to Pioneer – it’s easy to learn about days gone by. Start with the listing for the National Register of Historic Places. Somewhere in the mix, you’ll learn that on November 1, 1861, Pueblo County organized. Then we have a handful of museums to walk get you thinking down memory lane. Continue the journey at the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk and Union Avenue Historic Commercial District.

Buying Land in Present Pueblo County

The wonderful depth of Indigenous and Native American cultures saturates modern America in Pueblo County. Now connected through the Internet to the world, it’s once-agrarian community is ready to combine the farmhouse and industrial trends. How would this 151-acre property in Boone enhance your investments, lifestyle, and the community?

Colorado Realtors – Farm and Ranch

Call the Farm and Ranch experts at Cruikshank Realty, Inc. (719) 326-7802 . Or stop by our offices–20 South Main Street, Lamar, Colorado 81052–for guidance buying and selling farmland in Colorado .

Make your Christmas Home in Lamar– SE Colorado Real Estate

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 06:51:14 GMT

Make your Christmas Home in Lamar– SE Colorado Real Estate

Just outside town, an attractive 3-bedroom Lamar home for sale sits on an acre waiting for a new family to bring it to life. This southeastern Colorado real estate offers the country lifestyle you been waiting for—all in a friendly, full-service community. You can raise chickens, get a couple of horses, and grow your own vegetables and trees.

Address: 7451 Highway 196, Lamar, CO 81052
MLS#: 197297
Price: $199,000 or $111 per square foot

Details – Lamar Home for Sale on Acre

If you are looking for properties in southeastern Colorado, check out this fresh-looking space. Set up a volleyball court or baseball field. The lot measures 176 feet by 250 feet. The ranch-style home features 1879 square feet of living area, including three bedrooms and two full bathrooms.

It’s sure to inspire great Christmas promise. Built in 1970, the home has been updated and refreshed just for you. The floors are new. The air-conditioning unit is new. The kitchen was recently remodeled and sports new appliances and the kitchen island. Those new floors flow from room to room, offering a spacious clean feel and the huge great room. The kitchen measures 20 by 10, dining room 25 by 11, and living room 27 by 21. Carpeting in the bedrooms makes it cozy as can be. The master measures 19 by 12 and the other two bedrooms are smaller.

Enjoy the low-maintenance metal roofing and plenty of elbow room. Outside is an open patio to the rear and a covered patio. We’re sure you’ll fill the two sheds and the two-car detached garage. What will you get horses and chickens? This property welcomes them. And there are no covenants or homeowner’s association.

Lamar Colorado – A Family Friendly Town

Lamar is the county seat for Prowers County, Colorado and offers full business services. Home to over 7,500 residents, the small town serves as an agricultural hub for Southeastern Colorado. Maybe that’s why residents come out in force to cheer on the home teams. Lamar sits in the High Plains at 3600 feet near quiet places to fish and hunt.

In addition, the historic community lies in the center of the nation. Established transit routes meet here, including highways going north, south, east, and west. How convenient to have Amtrak passenger rail service stop here enroute between Chicago and L.A.

Directions

From Lamar, go north on Highway 196 to 7451 Highway 196, Lamar, CO 81052. The property will be on the right.

Lamar CO Real Estate Agents

Cruikshank Realty, Inc. introduces buyers to the best of the Southern Colorado lifestyle. We know the area like the back of our hand. Whether you’d like a Christmas country home on an acre like this one or you’d rather a modern home in a subdivision, or a big ranch, we’ll search out the perfect match.

For more information about this Lamar home for sale and other properties in Prowers County, Colorado, call Cruikshank Realty, Inc., at (719) 336-7802 .

Farmland in Oklahoma – Agricultural Real Estate Investments

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 06:51:11 GMT

Farmland in Oklahoma – Agricultural Real Estate Investments

Agricultural real estate investments add stability to anyone’s portfolio. Take farmland in Oklahoma . Farms in Oklahoma add value at fair prices. Oklahoma’s growing population is reaching for local produce along with the high cash value marijuana crops now available. But is an investment in Oklahoma farmland the best thing for your portfolio?

Oklahoma Farm for Sale

Are you interested in the 6332-acre Fry Farm in the Oklahoma Panhandle? It’s in Keyes and Cimarron County. A large contiguous and irrigated operation, Fry Farm masterfully developed for planned income-crop production. The farm features a house and other developments, water allocation, productive sandy soils, location, and investment opportunities including hunting income streams.

And the new price is $17,750,000, down from $21M.

Is any Farm in Oklahoma for You?

Think before buying your farm in Oklahoma. If you would like to farm yourself, be sure you would like to live in Oklahoma. The Sooner State with its Midwestern friendliness and Southern hospitality features rolling hills and flat areas. No scenic mountains in sight for your weekend treks but great opportunities otherwise.

On the other hand, Oklahoma could do you very well. The cost of living is fourth from the bottom out of all fifty states. A growing number of new residents, businesses, and entrepreneurs are taking advantage of that affordability. Compared to other states farmland in Oklahoma is affordable and gaining value as property and as a food commodity.

Buyer Notes for Farmland in Oklahoma

So, the investment opportunity is there. In Oklahoma, prices for farmland are enticing. Smaller farms might do well close to the population centers of Tulsa, Oklahoma City, and Norman where shoppers demand organic and specialty crops. Large agricultural operations could thrive anywhere, all the way into the Oklahoma Panhandle.

The complex aspects of selecting the best farm for sale require agricultural knowledge. Interested investors would do themselves a favor to hire a real estate agent with a farming specialty. Farm experts help evaluate soil types, water sources, weather patterns, transportation, and access for your plot of land. Their knowledge base is invaluable.

Investments in Oklahoma Farmland

Real property is one of the most stable investments in your portfolio. When the economy waivers, as inflation spikes, as farmland gets more scarce, real property is gaining in value. The oft-quoted Will Rogers says that all. “By land. They ain’t making any more of the stuff.” As much productive farmland has become cities and suburbs, currently available farmland becomes invaluable: people need food.

While investments in the stock market, mutual funds, gold and silver, Bitcoin, and the like fluctuate, land increases in value over time.

A Cautionary Consideration About American Farms

It’s important for cities, counties, and states to keep control of their food supplies. In recent decades, foreign buyers have been investing in Oklahoma farmland. Any of you who are U.S. citizen investors may be able to help keep our agricultural land American owned with this effort.

Legislation addresses the concern of allowing foreign investments into the food industry. Congress passed a 1978 law to stop the threat of foreign interests to control our food prices. Both the American Farm Bureau Federation and the National Farmers Union backed the Food Security is National Security Act of 2017.

Oklahoma Realtors Specializing in Farm & Ranch

Gene Cruikshank, owner Cruikshank Realty, Inc. in Lamar, holds licenses for Colorado, Oklahoma, Kansas, and New Mexico. Our company has a client and customer base throughout the United States. Our goal is to help you reach your i nvestment real estate goals.

Call Gene Cruikshank at 719-336-7802.

How Can You Benefit from Real Estate Auctions?

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 06:46:18 GMT

How Can You Benefit from Real Estate Auctions?

Once upon an era, real estate auctions were mostly tools used by lenders to offload bank-owned properties. Today’s real estate auctions have progressed far beyond those limited times. Now we see sellers and bidders from every sector getting involved.

All types of Buyers and Sellers have come to appreciate auctions. Auctions take the guess work out of the process. They are orderly. Specific rules and requirements predetermine the course. Perhaps most importantly, auctioneers follow a code of ethics. Maybe you can take advantage of this popular real estate tool.

How Sellers Benefit from Real Estate Auctions

Real estate auctions provide sellers with the true market value at the time of the auction. The best outcomes for both sellers and buyers are possible in this encapsulated environment. Besides being fun, competitive bidding results in the best prices.

Auction events produce cash results and prompt closure within 30 to 45 days. These advantages come in addition to the ability to list any property for sale “as is”. Sellers benefit by being able to set the smallest acceptable price. And the property usually sells on any given day. This prevents normal carrying costs from hunting them.

Buyer Benefits

Ask investors. Auctions can be highly beneficial to those who want to buy properties. If the idea of real estate auctions wets your interest but you have no out-of-the-way property to auction off, maybe it’s time to get your feet wet.

Here are reasons to begin studying properties available through auctions. A dozen benefits come to mind.

Competitive bidding in the driver’s seat. You will know the market value – and that’s powerful. The actual event helps you make good decisions based on the other bidders and the seller. By the way, the seller really wants to sell.

With your finances are in order ahead of time, you will own the property quickly. Forget long pending negotiations. And the new modern online auctions extensively reduce time frames.

All assets involved in land auctions and property auctions are available for inspection. Buyers will walk the land and ask the questions to obtain the knowledge they need.

Online Auctions

Often times, sellers prefer to have their properties marketed to a very broad audience, one available through the Internet. This may be reserved for real estate auctions held during difficult months of the year or some other restricted time. But these auctions can gain bidders quickly over time and buyers who use them use that time to make good decisions.

Auctions Continue to Offer New Horizons

Land auctions and other types of property auctions continue to thrive, especially during tightening economies. As the Internet boosted the efficiency of property auctions, the societal mobility also contributed. People get around easily, even via Zoom-type calls, to gain easy access to properties being sold on the auction block. And everyone has a jolly time. Anticipation, meeting one another, and generally reacting to the excitement in the air. It’s kind of like going to the races.

Auctioneers – SE Colorado

Call Gene Cruikshank at (719) 336-7802. Cruikshank Realty, Inc. offers complete real estate auction services and normal private treaty marketing. Licensed auctioneer for Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. We keep client and customer bases throughout the United States.

Our guiding principle has always been to respect all customers and clients and match them with the best real estate investment.

4 Bedroom Lamar Real Estate in SE Colorado

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 06:39:15 GMT

4 Bedroom Lamar Real Estate in SE Colorado

Relocate to attractive Lamar real estate for sale , a bi-level home in Oak Place Subdivision. Nestled between mature trees on a corner lot, this single-family home will accommodate a growing family or guests. This southeastern Colorado home could be yours if you move quickly.

Lamar homes for sale offer small-town living, big open spaces, and trails. The Prowers County seat, Lamar, Colorado is a full-service community along Highway 287. Her central location in the United States means fun times hitting the road, too.

Address: 408 Oak Road, Lamar, CO 81052
MLS #: R 196379
List Price: $209,000

Details – 408 Oak Road, Lamar Real Estate

Featuring a brick and wood-siding exterior topped by a brand-new metal roof, this 1756 square foot Lamar home for sale rocks a bit country curb appeal. The charming home features four bedrooms and two baths plus a two-car attached garage. The large corner lot spans 8320 square feet in the entire back yard is fenced. In addition, this property features a large back deck off the kitchen for relaxing summer evenings.

On the upper level (892 square feet) find a full kitchen leading to the deck, a formal dining room, living room, two bedrooms, and a full bath. The finished lower level houses the master bedroom, a 3/4 bath, the fourth bedroom, the laundry room, and an extra-large family room. It’s fully carpeted and tiled.

The kitchen features lots of cabinets and hard surface countertop. The Maytag and Whirlpool appliances convey. Accent is on the brick fireplace in the comfortable living room.

Built in 1971, the homes systems add to the positive lifestyle. There’s natural gas heat and refrigerated central air along with ceiling fans. The home is also outfitted with a tankless, on-demand water heater. Double pane and vinyl windows protect against hot or cold weather.

The easy-to-maintain landscaping is supplemented by front and back sprinkler systems and lawns. In the rear of the home, the deck and a lower patio add to outdoor living. A backyard garden and shed enable extra storage and space for any green thumb.

Directions to Lamar CO Home for Sale

In Lamar, take Highway 287 E. on Parmenter to Oak Road.

Lamar Realtors – Residential Lamar CO Real Estate

Cruikshank Realty, Inc. has been located in Lamar, CO since the mid 1980’s. Licensed in Colorado, Realtor Sharon Cruikshank heads up the residential division of Cruikshank Realty. Call Sharon at (719) 336-7802 or (719) 688-1403 cell .

Gene Cruikshank, Realtor and Auctioneer, offers extensive ability in the farm and ranch division throughout Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma and New Mexico.

Cruikshank Realty’s motto: Respect and Consideration for all customers and clients. Customer loyalty gifts us with status as one of the most referred real estate businesses in Southern Colorado.

Own a 17+ Acre Colorado Horse Property near Lamar

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 06:39:14 GMT

Own a 17+ Acre Colorado Horse Property near Lamar

Step right into a great Colorado horse property and family homestead near Lamar. The country home nestles into mature trees near a big shop—all on 17.7 acres in farm country. You can’t beat the price for this much move-in ready Colorado real estate at $199,000!

Located 16 miles northwest of Lamar, the small farm is in good company in the Wiley area where farms offer a quality lifestyle and lots of privacy. What would you do with a small Colorado farm or ranch? Let the children play outside, the dogs run? Raise a couple of horses alongside your fresh vegetable garden? Do some canning or set up a woodshop and maybe even get an old tractor out plowing the fields?

Colorado Horse Property near Lamar – Historic Home

A historic house anchors the open land for sale in Wiley. Featuring 1780 square feet, the two-level home includes three bedrooms and one bath. There’s plenty of space for a growing family or extra hobbies. Some of you might even turn it into a modern farmhouse design!

Built in 1916, the spacious home features good bones and nice-sized rooms. The kitchen, dining room, living room, and family room create a sizable gathering place on the main level. Conveniently situated nearby are a full bathroom and the master bedroom. On the upper level, two additional bedrooms and an open area for a den or study add extra space.

Additional features include a mud room, and outside seller, double pane windows, natural gas heat, and refrigerated central air. Flooring varies. The dining and family rooms show off the authentic hardwood floors while the living room and bedrooms are carpeted. The kitchen floor is tiled.

Wiley Colorado Horse Property – Shop Outbuilding

A 2400 square foot detached outbuilding comes in very handy. It accommodates several vehicles, equipment – maybe even a half ball court. Boasting tall ceilings, the shop measures 60 feet x 40 feet. In addition, cement flooring covers about a third of the interior. This handy building could accommodate horse stalls and hay storage or a woodshop.

Southeastern Colorado Real Estate Agents – Farm Specialists

Call Cruikshank Realty, Inc. at (719) 336-7802 for details about this Colorado horse property for sale near Wiley and Lamar.

Cruikshank Realty, Inc., located in Lamar, Colorado since the mid 1980’s, is an expert in residential and farm and ranch real estate . After all, Lamar has long established itself as the main trading center for agriculture in southeastern Colorado. Our services include normal private treaty marketing and land auctions—whatever it takes to assist clients reach their investment and real estate goals.

Love People and Cooking? Restaurant for Sale in Wiley CO

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 06:39:13 GMT

Love People and Cooking? Restaurant for Sale in Wiley CO

Do you love cooking and serving people? Here’s an opportunity to buy a working restaurant for sale in Wiley , CO? It’s completely turnkey with an optional liquor license. Add your culinary flare, put out a sign, and join this small town in southeast Colorado.

Located only a few yards from Highway 287 on a downtown corner, the popular restaurant welcomes all to its friendly atmosphere. Loved by the community, The Cornerstone Restaurant is a landmark for locals and folks traveling through southeastern Colorado. It’s one piece of Wiley CO real estate that comes with loyal clientele. The thriving business only needs a new owner.

Address: 223 Main Street, Wiley, CO 81092
MLS#: B194169A
List Price: $120,000

Details – Turnkey Restaurant for Sale in Wiley CO

Boasting a simple design, the single-story restaurant for sale in Wiley offers 1750 square feet of interior space and a concrete paved parking lot. The floor plan includes a kitchen, dining area, and restroom. The commercially zoned parcel totals 0.08 acres, measuring 25 feet x 148 feet.

See more photographs of the current layout and open floor plan. The establishment comes with all fixtures, furniture, cooking utensils and even dishes. Systems include forced-air heating, central cooling, and natural gas fuel along with public water and sewer.

Wiley and Lamar, Colorado

Wiley and nearby Lamar are part of the main trading center for agriculture in southeastern Colorado. This Wiley business sits on a premium spot across from the post office and a local bank. Wiley is about fifteen minutes northwest of Lamar, the seat of Prowers County. The area lies along tribal routes that crisscross from Kansas to the front Range and from Texas to Wyoming.

Like many small agricultural communities in the area, southeastern Colorado rural communities boast only 350 residents in Wiley to the 7500 in Lamar. These folks get together for special events, school sports, and favorite hobbies like hiking, riding, and hunting. And, yes, they often meet at the Cornerstone Café.

Directions

From Lamar, Colorado, take Highway 287 N. to Wiley. Turn right on 3rd Street/CO-196. Cornerstone Cafe will be on the right.

Commercial Real Estate Agents – Lamar Colorado

Please call Cruikshank Realty, Inc. at (719) 336-7802 for more information. Our well-established Colorado real estate agents have been serving the Lamar area of Arkansas Valley for over 40 years. Our guiding principle: Respect and Consideration for all customers and clients.

Cruikshank Realty also offers clients broad-based real estate knowledge to help process complicated transactions. So, whether you’d like an investment acquisition, 1031 Exchanges or management, we’re right here for you. We care about each client and every transaction.

320 AC Colorado Land Auction Open Houses June 18 and 25

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 06:39:12 GMT

320 AC Colorado Land Auction Open Houses June 18 and 25

Open houses for a Colorado land auction in Baca County will be held Friday afternoons, June 18 and 25. Phone bids open July 12. Between now and then, interested parties will have plenty of time to learn about the Turner Farm Auction in southeastern Colorado.

If are the highest bidder, the 320 acres of grassland and accompanying 3056 square-foot home and other improvements will be all yours! The farm auction property sits 11 miles east of Two Buttes on Highway 116.

Auction Location and Bidding Details

Open House: June 18 and June 25, 2021 from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. MDT
Phone Bidding: July 12, 2021, 8: 30 a.m. MDT until July 15, 2021, 5 p.m. MDT (Phone #s below)
Address: 49991 State Highway 116, Walsh, CO 81090
Legal Description: E 1/2 Section 32 – Township 285 – Range 42W of 6th PM

Quick Ownership

The improvements can make this an almost instantaneous working farm or ranch. After the funding and closing, and 20 days after the end of bidding and Seller confirmation, the new owners will take possession. So, a new family could be settled before the next school year.

Learn the Ins and Outs

Turner Farm property is being sold in “as is” condition. The acreage and boundaries are considered approximate. Please inspect public records of Bobcat County, Colorado four information on easements, Right of Way, restrictions, or exceptions. As far as mineral rights, the Seller will surrender his rights, understood as 100 percent. During the open house, feel free to inspect for any types of noxious weeds.

Overall Features – Baca County Colorado Land Auction

As we mentioned, this Colorado land auction includes Turner Farm in Baca County, Colorado. This property features 320 acres of grassland and improvements including a 3 bedroom/3 bath main house. The home is large, providing 3056 square feet of living area. The main level includes 1860 square feet and the basement another 1196 square feet. An attached garage features 1296 square feet.

Other improvements include a carport. Plus, the new owners will have a corral with livestock water, 2 pens, a metal calving shed, storage shed, and three fuel tanks.

Main House Description

The Main House offers 1860 square feet of living area on the main level. The Main Level includes kitchen, large living room, laundry room, 3 bedrooms, a full bathroom, and to 3/4 bathrooms. An enclosed porch and the attached garage add to the layout. The garage is big enough to include the shop and is accessible through an overhead walk-in door. It is plumbed with utilities and has a concrete floor.

In the basement, there are two finished rooms used as bedrooms. Other useful areas include a large entertainment room and the storage/utility room.

Systems include a well with filtration and software system for the house, a power generator for stand-by-power wired to the house, forced air heater and air conditioner. In 2017, all outbuildings received new composition shingle roofing and in 2019 new gutters.

Auction Bidding

At the Turner Farm auction , the property will sell in one tract of 320 acres. Interested parties will place one bid for the entire parcel and improvements. All qualified persons or entities may bid.

To bid, or to learn the current high bid during the auction, call Cruikshank Realty, Inc. at 719-336-7802 (primary phone). If busy, call 719-688-7802 or 719-691-5189. Bidders will receive bidding numbers to assure confidential bidding during the bidding process. The bidding numbers will be associated with specific bids.

Colorado Farm and Ranch Real Estate East of Pueblo in Avondale

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 06:03:45 GMT

Colorado Farm and Ranch Real Estate East of Pueblo in Avondale

Looking for new beginnings? How about starting on your own farm and ranch real estate in Avondale, Colorado. Avondale real estate is off US-50 just east of Pueblo. This farm property has been divided into four parcels, each sized 35-40 acres. Price: $50,000 per parcel or $380,000 for all parcels plus water rights and well. Water rights include a 25 HP electric motor dormant since 1996. A pipeline easement runs from the well to the property.

Avondale Farm and Ranch Real Estate

In the past our Avondale farm acreage earned its keep as pasture. The access to water and irrigation ditches served it well. Other Avondale farms and ranches utilize property in the High Plains for crop and tree farming, livestock, and equestrian purposes. For example, a tree farm offers several slow growing options for landscaping and the popular White Fir for Christmas. A wide variety of shrubs grow well here. Austrian Pine, Bristlecone Pine, Pinion, Ponderosa, Douglas Fir, Scotch Pine, Blue Spruce, Junipers, and more. In addition, a variety of shrubs, grasses, bushes, and flowers thrive in this area.

Another option for this Avondale farm and ranch real estate would be grazing land. It can be equipped a horse barn and small-style state-of-the-art grazing infrastructure. Grasses native to Avondale and herbaceous cover would multiply the drought resistance of this acreage.

A developer may choose to get creative and turn these parcels into smaller ranches with shared community amenities. Under the blue skies of Southern Colorado, any number of additional purposes could be envisioned.

Pueblo County, Colorado

Avondale sits in the High Plains at 4544-foot elevations east of Pueblo, Colorado. Home to 1500, farms, ranches, and homes accommodate the greater Avondale community. It is only 20 minutes east of Pueblo, the county seat. The area thrives on its Native and Western culture.

A natural transportation hub, Pueblo sits along Interstate 25. This major transportation route extends north/south from Wyoming to Colorado and into New Mexico. In addition, US Highways 50 and 85 and many Colorado highways pass through Pueblo County.

Recreation in Pueblo County

National forests and protected areas, trails and byways bring plenty of tourists through the area. Farther south and west, travelers readily access San Isabel National Forest and Greenhorn Mountain Wilderness, and the Rocky Mountains. American Discovery trail and the Frontier Pathways National Scenic and Historic Byway, along with some major bicycle routes, promote recreation in the area.

Attractions promote the community’s distinctive ethnic heritage. Several museums, Nature and Wildlife Discovery Center, Pueblo Zoo, and Historic Arkansas Riverwalk are among them. Numerous rodeo events and other equestrian activities fill the calendar for the Greater Pueblo community, including Avondale.

Colorado Realtors – Farm and Ranch Real Estate

Call the experts at Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802 to learn more about this or other Colorado farm and ranch real estate . Cruikshank Realty, Inc. serves with one guiding principle: Respect and Consideration for all customers and clients. We listen carefully and it gives us the ability to best match you with the real estate investment that fills your needs. Deep roots in southern Colorado gives us an advantage. From the largest to the smallest, we care about each client and every transaction.

Lamar CO Real Estate with Character and Quality

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 06:03:43 GMT

Lamar CO Real Estate with Character and Quality

Starter home or retiree home, this exceptionally priced Lamar CO real estate features 2067 square feet of quality living. Loaded with character, the historic Lamar home for sale will get snatched up quickly at this price. It features main level living with two bedrooms and a two-car detached garage.

Address: 505 S. 3rd St., Lamar CO 810 52
MLS #: Are 193 101 A
Price: $142,000, and low taxes

Details – Lamar CO Real Estate for Sale in Town

Built in 1929, an era of profound craftsmanship, this beautiful property has strong bones and basic features along with great curb appeal. Anything can be upgraded but it’s not necessary. The home is beautiful. Bright walls, double-pane windows, and dark wood trim offer a wonderful canvas for modern farmhouse interior decorating.

The main level features 1149 square feet of living area. It includes a kitchen, dining room, living room, laundry room, and to bedrooms with a full five-piece bathroom.

A large living room features impressive original woodwork in excellent condition. It’s perfect for setting County by the wood-burning fireplace in the winters. All window coverings convey with the sale and floors are carpeted. Spread out into the partially finished basement for a little pool or TV. The basement has an open layout and 918 square feet of extra space.

Completely heated with forced air, and cold with refrigerated central air, this charming home is very livable. The total equals 2067 square feet.

Outside the front yard is maintained with a sprinkler system. In the back, the detached two car garage has plenty of storage space. The property measures seventy-two feet by 100 feet. Conveniently located in town, this Lamar property for sale lies in the Homes & Parmenter neighborhood.

Why Real Estate in Lamar and Prowers County?

If you like a bit of peace and quiet, if you prefer to live far from major freeway traffic, and if you enjoy the camaraderie of small-town living, Lamar will be a good place for you to live. A creative type, we make our own things to do, till the land, and explore trails and waters of the Arkansas River Valley. The Lamar Schools do a fine job of giving our students sound educations and we’re here to and cheer them on. Many farmers and ranchers also treasure the real estate here and in the small communities of Prowers County.

Directions

From Lamar, go south on Main Street. Turn left on Parmenter and then right on 3rd Street.

Lamar CO Real Estate Agents

Call Cruikshank Realty, Inc. in Lamar, Colorado at (719) 229-5444 . Our guiding principle: Respect and Consideration for all customers and clients. With deep roots in Southern Colorado, we listen carefully to match clients with the best real estate investments to meet their needs.

Want to be Self Sufficient? Buy a 27.5 AC Lamar Colorado Farm

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 06:03:42 GMT

Want to be Self Sufficient? Buy a 27.5 AC Lamar Colorado Farm

This 27.5-acre Lamar Colorado Farm for sale features just enough land and improvements to get you started prepping. Or just take it easy and retire to get going on your hobbies. An old farmhouse and a couple of outbuildings will help you.

For farming, find a small tractor and you’ll be right on time for spring planting season and self-sufficient before you know it. This property is convenient, only a few minutes from shopping and good schools in Lamar.

Address: 6391 County Road HH, Lamar, CO 81052
MLS #: R 191865A
Parcel #: 0800043500 consisting of 1197900 square feet.
Price: $225,000

Details – Small Colorado Farm for Sale

Nestled next to a few billowing trees, the one-level country house sits back on 27.5 acres of flat farmland about a mile west of Lamar. Built in 1915, the 1156 square-foot home includes 3 bedrooms and 1 bath. Outbuildings add 330 and 560 square feet of work area. One detached garage space currently graces the property.

Built of stucco, the house for sale features a front porch and back patio, each overlooking grassy areas and trees. Fields are in the background. Central natural gas heat and central air make for year-round comfort. Put on your HGTV hat and transform the quaint home into a modern farmhouse with add-ons.

Timeline for Planting

Several seeds germinate now indoors and then transplant in April or May. For example, start indoors with some herbs like rosemary, oregano, basil, and thyme. Vegetable seedlings like kale, eggplant, peppers, and tomatoes also reach good size before it’s time to transplant them. Plant hardy vegetables like radishes directly outside. Add a long list of favorites and get planning for canning, dehydration, and storage.

Irrigation

Several water sources will help with your farming and ranching capabilities. Previous owners have used a ditch system, flood irrigation, water rights, head gate, and gated pipe to service the property. This breaks down to 27. 5 assessed acres, 14.9 irrigated acres, and 8.9 grass acres. Also included are 42 shares of Fort Bent Canal. PVC irrigation pipe and valves come with the sale.

Location

The Arkansas River flows north of Lamar. This small Colorado farm for sale lies in Prowers County in an area known as Arkansas Valley. For directions starting from the post office in Lamar, go west on W. Elm Street. Turn left on S. 6th St. and right on W. Oak St. Continue 1.1 miles. See the white farmhouse and land on the right.

SE Colorado Real Estate Agents

Gene Cruikshank, owner of Cruikshank Realty, Inc. in Lamar, Colorado, heads up the firm’s farm and ranch division. Call us at (719) 336-7802 . Holding licenses for Colorado and surrounding states, our company has a broad client and customer base in the United States. We actively counsel clients to assist them to reach their investment real estate goals.

Farm and Land Auctions in SE Colorado – When to Auction vs. List

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 06:03:41 GMT

Farm and Land Auctions in SE Colorado – When to Auction vs. List

Land auctions accelerate the selling process. Auctions can be the most efficient means to sell farms, homes, and land. In the modern world, more property owners chose farm and land auctions versus listing these properties.

There are many reasons for the auction trend. While in the past banks used auctions to sell properties, just as many landowners have discovered the many auction benefits. And because of websites, buyers more readily find real estate auctions from online listings.

Cruikshank Realty helps clients navigate complicated transactions. Our services include normal private treaty marketing and Land Auctions. Our background includes some of the largest irrigated farmland and ranch land property sales in SE Colorado. And we use a variety of instruments–investment acquisition, 1031 Exchanges, water rights to property management. With a broad background, we have gained the knowledge to steer our clients towards the best options to achieve their goals. For some, it is the real estate auction.

Why Use Land Auctions vs. Listing to Sell

Many sellers rely on auctions to bring faster and better results than traditional real estate listings. Some like the vitality of the auction process, while others may have unusual additions to their land auctions. Let’s say tractors or outbuildings. At times, families choose the auction format to liquidate estates.

Below find additional reasons sellers opt for farm and land auctions in southern Colorado and the Lamar region.

Auction sales can move quickly.
The convenience of online access.
Competitive bidding can increase selling price.
Auctions can help sellers sell at market value amid lowering prices.
Quality approved buyers come to auctions.
Sellers establish the timeline for their auction sales.

Navigating the Types of Auctions

It does not take long for an expert auctioneer and former farmer to guide buyers to the most favorable kinds of farm and land auctions. While bidders will always be competing against one another, the way it happens can differ. Most sellers opt for open auctions with ascending prices. Here the auctioneer calls out a price to a current bidder to agree to or decline. The auction ends when no one is willing to go higher on last price called.

There are uncommon types of auctions also. Occasionally, sellers may also want to set a price and to then control how low the price may go. So, we have open auctions with descending price and reserve price. Sealed or blind first-price and second-price auctions require bidders to place secret bids. The highest or next-highest bid wins. These are not so common when selling real estate. And the list goes on. Multi-unit auctions deal with multiple items together. All pay auctions, bidding fee auctions, buyout auctions, silent auctions…you’ll see these used in business and organizational arenas.

In conclusion, Cruikshank Realty will simplify the selling process for you based on your goals. Cruikshank Realty established deep roots in southern Colorado where Lamar, a trading center for agriculture, serves as a hub. Our team works with a client and customer base throughout the United States.

Land Auction and Real Estate Specialists – Southeast Colorado

C ontact Cruikshank Realty, Inc. in Lamar, Colorado at (719) 336-7802 for more information about farm and land auctions . Cruikshank Realty has two divisions, Residential and Farm and Ranch. Gene Cruikshank heads up the farm and ranch division and holds real estate licenses for Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico.

320 AC Colorado Farmland in Kiowa County – Barley, Sorghum, Wheat

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 06:03:40 GMT

320 AC Colorado Farmland in Kiowa County – Barley, Sorghum, Wheat

For only $144,000 you can own a 320 acres of Colorado farmland in Eads. This Southeastern Colorado real estate for sale has a track record farming barley, grain sorghum, and wheat. About 20 minutes from the Kiowa County seat, this sizeable acreage fits well into the rural community. Neighboring Kiowa County farms and ranches raise a variety of animals and crops.

Details – 320 Deeded Acres of Colorado Farmland

Almost the entire 320 deeded acres consists of cropland, 316.8 acres to be exact. Consider it well-drained Colorado cropland. This could be just the property to host heirloom grains used for brewing, now a Colorado pastime.

Per the Stromberger Soils map in our flyer, the soil composition is as follows:

70.1 percent Stoneham loam soils with 0 to 3 percent slopes
13.9 percent Kim-Stoneham-Larimer loam soils with 3 to 12 percent slopes
13.7 percent Fort Collins sandy loam soils with 0 to 3 percent slopes
2.3 percent Vona-Stoneham sandy loams with 1 to 10 percent slopes

Eads and Kiowa County

In Kiowa County, Eads sits at US Highway 287 and CO Highway 97 on the far eastern edge of Colorado. The 600 residents of Eads enjoy a country lifestyle with lots of space. Visitors to the area come to the living history museum and Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site. It’s known for its association with Kit Carson and other famous Western characters. There’s also the Koshare Indian Kiva and Museum which showcases American Indian artifacts. This Boy Scout project hosts occasional events. A third landmark illustrates historical elements from the pioneer and railroad.

Directions Farmland for Sale near Eads, Colorado

This Colorado farmland is 25 minutes southwest of Eads. From Eads, take Highway 96 west for 7 miles. Turn south on CR 33 and continue 12 miles.

Your Southeastern Colorado Real Estate Specialists

Call Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802 or visit us at 20 S Main St Ste 1, Lamar, CO 81052. Gene Cruikshank of Cruikshank Realty, Inc. in nearby Lamar, Colorado heads up the farm and ranch division. In addition, Cruikshank Realty also offers expertise with real estate auctions , 1031 Exchanges, water rights, property management, and related needs.

Cruikshank Realty is keenly interested in the specific objectives of each client. We hope to assist clients to achieve real estate investment goals. Deep roots in southern Colorado gives us added advantage. Gene comes with a personal background on the farm and holds licenses for Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico.

Real Estate Auctions: A Focus on Benefits to Sellers

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 05:35:02 GMT

Real Estate Auctions: A Focus on Benefits to Sellers

Sellers stand to reap several benefits from using real estate auctions to sell their properties. Auctions accelerate the marketing and sale by offering competitive bidding with a condensed timeframe. In modern times, auctions have become the preferred method of sale for many businesses and individuals who want to liquidate unused buildings and land.

How do Real Estate Auctions Benefit Sellers?

Auctions benefit Sellers in many ways. According to the National Association of Realtors, Sellers gain major benefits by using an auction process. Their findings are collaborated by other auction companies. In brief, Sellers come out ahead using the auction method because:

Buyers come prepared to buy and must pre-qualify for financing.
Sellers are assured that the property will sell at true market value.
The property sale is accelerated.
Long-term carrying costs such as taxes and maintenance are reduced because of the quick sale.
A larger quantity of pre-qualified prospects can be exposed to the property through aggressive marketing.
Competition is created among the buyers.
The auction price may exceed the price of the negotiated sale.
Seller knows exactly when the property will sell.
Auctions eliminate numbers of showings and “lookers”.
The seller is removed from the negotiation process.
No contingencies are allowed on an auction property.
A specific property is highlighted, forcing buying decisions.
The auctioneer works exclusively for the seller.
Sellers can set a reserved price. If there are no bidders at that level, the Seller can opt out of the sale.

What are the Best Properties to Auction?

Look around at your assets to determine which ones could best sell through an auction. Items normally sold at auction run the gamut from real estate to equipment to the states and chattel. Everything has a price.

Cruikshank Realty specializes in real estate auctions. In our experience, land auctions do very well. This includes farmland, pastureland, and recreational land tracts. Otherwise, any property is suitable for auction when the Sellers need to sell quickly or they are absentee owners. One-of-a-kind properties where there are no comparable properties also lend themselves to real estate auctions.

How to Sell your Property at Auction

Get started by finding a reputable local auctioneer. The auction company will sit down to review your goals for the auction. Why are you converting your assets into cash? Based on the market value, your auctioneer will evaluate your properties and weigh them against your expectation. A good auctioneer will advise you as to the best approach. For example, to achieve a good sale, is it better to sell 200 acres as one parcel or divided into five tracts?

The auctioneer’s sale analysis and appraisal will determine the auction event. In fact, the auctioneer and the Seller partner through a contract to get the best possible outcomes.

Real Estate Agents Specializing in Colorado Land, Farms and Ranches

For more information, please call Gene Cruikshank, Broker/President, Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802 . Schedule an appointment or stop by Cruikshank Realty to visit. Cruikshank Realty is located at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. Specializing in Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales , Management, Auctions, and Exchanges.

10 Top Remodels for the Ranch-Style Homes Built 50-70 Years Ago

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 05:35:01 GMT

10 Top Remodels for the Ranch-Style Homes Built 50-70 Years Ago

Ranch-style homes – the one-level open-space living popular 50-70 years ago – has been making a comeback during the last several years. Much of the Colorado residential real estate in Lamar fits the bill. Although some buyers prefer to take the decisions on these ranch homes themselves, others appreciate Sellers who already got the job done.

Who Are These Homebuyers?

The demand for smaller homes and one-level homes has been steadily increasing over the past five years. Young professionals and families would like to begin investing instead of renting. Baby boomers are downsizing and desiring to live on less. Both demographics, nonetheless, prefer newer materials and modern designs even as they embrace the smaller footprint.

More recently we see effect of layoffs and changes in the economy that affect all the demographics. It appears that the ranch-style homes are here to stay. Buyers value one-level living without steps.

Ranch-Style Homes and Rambler Homes

Typically fashioned after ranch homes seen on big cattle Ranches, the ranch-style and Rambler style usually rambles horizontally. It is wide and narrow with wide open spaces and low-pitched roofs. Occupants can readily step outside to porches, yards, or the barn.

10 Remodeling Projects to Add Value

Here are some excellent makeover projects for ranch-style and Rambler homes.

Paint is a miracle invention. All oak-colored trim should be changed to a dark or light color. For example, if you would like does gray walls, then white trim and white cabinets and a sleek impression. Add a modern-looking chandelier. Also paint old wood trims and paneled walls. On the outside, paint the front door. Create contrast between the color of the house and the trim. For example, paint brick lighter gray and use black around the windows and gutters.
Single-floor houses built a half a century ago may have partitions or walls between the kitchen, dining area, and living room. One of the top priorities for Sellers with this layout may be removing one or more of those barriers. This can be accomplished easily. It allows for light to enter through windows and adjoining rooms and connects the kitchen to the living areas.
Remove the flooring and replace it with seamless, wall-to-wall wood-type floors that extend into every room except the bathrooms. Alternately, use tile everywhere.
Accentuate or enlarge a front porch by extending out a roof and fencing. This breaks up the long, plain exterior. Then add a few symmetrical clusters of bushes to break up the long horizontal look.
Replace the kitchen and bathroom cabinets or cabinet doors with a sleek style. Stainless steel appliances and kitchen sink will up the vibration. Consider quartz countertops to keep with the homestyle and stay away from granite and marble. Bathrooms could incorporate the large white subway tiles.
Simply replace the fixtures. Light fixtures, sink fixtures, doorknobs, faucets, etc. If there is an attic, consider adding pot lights.
Speaking of attics… When a ranch-style home features space above the ceiling, then it is possible to raise the ceiling in the new Great Room.
Replace some or all small windows with floor-to-ceiling windows. Alternately, hang the curtains from the ceiling to the floor. The vertical lines will make the ceiling appear taller. Add French doors for additional light.
Have a professional check any textured walls or popcorn ceilings for asbestos.
Outside, to balance the angular look, and curves to sidewalks, oval garden beds, and interesting grasses and colorful flowers.

Designing Ranch-Style Homes

It is easier to incorporate the midcentury modern style than to take a ranch house and try to make it into a castle. Eliminate excess interest. Go for a sleek look with clean lines, horizontal features, more angles. The Victorian scrolling and dowels used on pony walls need to go.

Real Estate Agents – Lamar Colorado

For more information, please call Gene Cruikshank, Broker/President, Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802 . Schedule an appointment or simply drop byt. Cruikshank Realty is located at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. Specializing in Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales , Management, Auctions, and Exchanges.

Quaint Single-Family Homes in Lamar – A Cheaper Colorado Retirement

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 05:25:18 GMT

Quaint Single-Family Homes in Lamar – A Cheaper Colorado Retirement

Exceptional prices tend to be a big plus when choosing single-family homes in Lamar , Colorado. In fact, let’s talk about some advantages of retiring to Lamar real estate. Lamar is located southeast of Denver. The state lines of Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas and New Mexico, and Nebraska are less than 90 minutes away from this point in the geographic center of the United States.

Central U.S.A. Location

Sitting in the southeast corner of Colorado, the peaceful community offers a central location in the heart of the United States. Imagine the ability to traveling to so many interesting places within a day. Many ski resorts in Colorado and New Mexico are about five hours away and Denver is much closer. Other large cities such as Dallas, Oklahoma City, Des Moines, Kansas City are an easy day’s drive. Yet, Lamar residents can return to the ultimate serenity of their friendly hometown.

Low Cost of Living

The cost of living in Lamar is 76.6, a whopping 23.4-percent lower than the national average. Lamar boasts a population of 7700 residents with an unemployment rate of under three percent. The median household income is $38,136 and the buying options are tailored to accommodate these residents.

Residents participate in a diversity of occupations. Salaries in Lamar run the gamut from $20,000 to $100,000 and more. So, financial comfort ability may depend on a Social Security check, seasonal job, and savings. The citizens of Lamar seem happy with their quality lifestyle.

Lamar CO Homes for Sale

Anyone retiring would be especially impressed by the affordable options for real estate in Lamar and the surrounding area where the views go on forever. The price point makes it possible to have a little acreage – or not – depending on your preferences. Regardless, the median home price is an inviting $105,500. A quick glance at new listings may show quaint homes in this price range to be 1200-1500 square feet. Newer subdivisions of Lamar real estate with higher prices may offer newer and larger homes on larger lots.

Climate

Set at 3619-foot elevations, Lamar, Colorado features a remarkably moderate weather pattern. It makes it easier to get around in an active lifestyle. Lamar provides substantial sunny days during the year. In the middle of the summer, temperature averages 93 in July. In the middle of the winter, the temperature averages a low of 14 in January. While the US average is 205, in Lamar the average is 261 sunny days. It rains or snows about 58 days a year.

Health

Health measures strongly. There are 67 physicians per 100,000 population, like other rural areas. Lamar ranks 76 for air quality while the US average is 58. The community ranks 60 for watershed quality while the US average is 55. Lamar’s low commute time enhances health and air quality. Retirees appreciate being able to get around town without traffic congestion and stress.

Lamar Real Estate Agents

Specializing in Homes in Lamar along with Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales , Management, Auctions, and Exchanges. Call Gene Cruikshank, Broker/President, Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802 . We will help you relocate to a perfect place to settle down in Lamar.

How to Be Part of the Revitalization of Walsenburg Real Estate

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 05:25:16 GMT

How to Be Part of the Revitalization of Walsenburg Real Estate

Invest in Walsenburg real estate in southern Colorado and be a part of small-town renewal. Affordable commercial real estate could prompt you to put some of your entrepreneurial ideas onto the front burner. Walsenburg used to rely on coal. Now with the new tech world and an excellent logistical location on Interstate 25, Walsenburg is poised to embrace creative new impulses.

They say all good things end. Alternatively, good communities can be revitalized and enter a better new cycle. Starting about 25 years ago, cities across America dove into myriad projects downtown. And the era continues.

Case in point are small communities, like Walsenburg, Colorado, where their economies hinged on one industry or one company. We’re listing an old brick church there. Built in 1929, the building includes 12,860 square feet on a quarter acre for $250,000. (See Listing ID #178146.)

Ways to Revitalize Walsenburg Real Estate

HGTV has helped turn remodeling into entertainment. Many of our readers also appreciate fixing things up and repurposing them. So, we’ll give you a little push. You don’t need to completely gut this building to put it back into circulation. Remodel where it matters, open it up, or add walls. Here are three ways to take the large Walsenburg commercial property mentioned above into a new life cycle.

Plant a church in Walsenburg, Colorado
Open a school or offices
Rebuild into loft homes and condos and/or a B&B

Church Building

Our Featured Listing was built 90 years ago. The beautiful historic building is ready for church use. There are 5,362 square feet on the main level, including a sanctuary with a balcony. Additional rooms include two offices, two classrooms, and two bathrooms. Add a baptismal, choir loft, and organ pipe room. The second level features 2,226 square feet and four rooms. In the basement are a large fellowship room, kitchen, salad room and pantry, storage room, quilter’s room, bathroom, and foyer.

Open a Business

This is a commercial property with all kinds of possibilities. Imagine a craft business with trade show booths. How about a theater, dance studio, restaurant, gallery, and yoga classes or camps? Offices for a small manufacturing enterprise, an art school or satellite university courses, big screen symphony performances—the possibilities go on. And the price is right.

Subdivide into Individual Homes

A third option would involve repurposing this commercial property into multifamily properties. These homes could be a mixture of 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom lofts and condos. With 12,860 total square feet, the property could embrace 7-10 nice, upgraded homes. Or start a B&B with separate suites or a youth hostel.

Colorado Realtors – Walsenburg

Put your ideas into the mix and you’ve joined in the revitalization process. For the low down on properties in Walsenburg, Colorado, please call Gene Cruikshank, Broker/President, Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802 . Schedule an appointment or visit us soon. Cruikshank Realty is located at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. Specializing in Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales , Management, Auctions, and Exchanges.

Why Buy CRP Land in the Conservation Reserve Program?

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 05:25:14 GMT

Why Buy CRP Land in the Conservation Reserve Program?

Are you wondering why you would ever buy CRP land ? Cruikshank Realty is offering two tracts of land that that are currently in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). So, let us talk about the CRP program, a brainchild of the USDA. Farmers may enroll their land into the CRP program for a certain number of years and received governmental payoff. During this term, the land is seeded with a variety of permanent grasses.

Kiowa County CRP Land for Sale

The two individual tracts of Kiowa County CRP land for sale are near Eads, Colorado. (See location and directions below.) Tract #1 includes 449 CRP acres and Tract #2 consists of 540.5 CRP acres. The CRP contracts yield annual payments of $16,218 and $18,242, respectively. Both CRP contracts expire in 2022. List prices are $259,500 and $290,500; total $550,000. Available separately or as a unit.

Conservation Reserve Program

The CRP includes land suitable for some conservation practices. These areas normally include riparian, wildlife habitat, and wetland buffers. They also may be filter strips, suitable for wetland restoration, or they are grass waterways, shelterbelts, living snow fences, contour grass strips, and other types of property beneficial to wildlife.

Any cropland could be considered as part of the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) if it has been farmed for four of the previous six crop years. It may be suitable as Continuous CRP land if it is marginal pastureland adjoining a stream, creek, river, sinks-hole, and/or duck nest.

Landowner CRP Benefits

Landowners receive contract payments for treating their acreage in specific ways. The CRP issues rental payments, cost-share assistance, and financial incentives. To qualify for rental payments, landowners must create long-term land cover on the property. There may be some cost-share assistance if the land cover is used for certain purposes. The FSA has offered additional incentives for field windbreaks, grass waterways, filter strips, and riparian buffers – and other services.

Environmental CRP Benefits

CRP acreage benefits the environment, soil, water quality, and wildlife. Native plants, animals and eco systems can be stabilized by adding simple filter strips. These separate an agricultural field and a stream, let’s say. The program also protects soil productivity by establishing conservation covers on at-risk land. This reduces erosion caused by sheet, rill, and wind. Water quality is improved because of the reduction in the erosion and minimalizing agricultural chemicals reaching the water sources.

The CRP program is beneficial for wildlife habitat. Bird populations have dramatically increased since the beginning of the Conservation Reserve Program.

History of Conservation Reserve Program

What is now the Conservation Reserve Program or CRP began developing in the 1950s. Back in 1956, the Agriculture Act carved out by the conservation branch of the Soil Bank Program sought to improve agriculture. Lands with the highest risk of erosion were removed from agricultural production. The land then was reseeded with native or alternative permanent vegetative cover. The government paid for land improvements if they improved the quality of soil, water, forestry, or wildlife. But the program was used infrequently. Then in the 1970s farmers began increasing total cultivation–fence row to fence row. This practice believed to be detrimental.

Programs were established in the next decade to address the problem. Take the Farm Bill of 1985. This bill extended the contract periods from three years to 10-15 years. This bill also increased the allowable acreage. In Farm Bill of 1990, allowable acreage increased to 40 million acres. This version added all kinds of eligible lands, some not so highly erodible. There were more changes in 1996 and 2002. These dealt with riparian areas, wetlands and types of vegetative cover, etc.

In 2002, the cropping history requirements were changed to four out of the six previous years. Land expiring under contract in the program would automatically be considered for re-enrollment. The 2008 Farm Bill allowed alfalfa growth, management, and cost-share incentives for land with trees, windbreaks, shelterbelts, and wildlife corridors.

Kiowa County Colorado Real Estate

A rural area, Kiowa County (pop. 1400) is north of our real estate offices in Lamar, Colorado. Eads is the county seat and closest community to our CRP land for sale. Eads serves the surrounding farming and ranching community and a few creeks that drain into the Arkansas River. The county’s largest high school is in Eads. Other towns in Kiowa County include towner, Arlington, Brandon, Chivington, and Haswell.

Directions to CRP Land for Sale in Kiowa County

Starting in Eads, Colorado, take Highway 96 W. for 5 miles. Turn south on County Road 35 and continue 5.25 miles to the northeast property corner. The property’s southeast corner is at the intersection of County Roads 35 and 11.

Realtors – Colorado Land, Farms and Ranches

For expert guidance when inquiring to buy CRP land, please call Gene Cruikshank, Broker/President, Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802 .
Schedule an appointment or come by to visit. Cruikshank Realty is located at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. Specializing in Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales, Management, Auctions, and Exchanges.

Affordable Home Idea in Lamar: Buy Big Lot, Add Your Manufactured Home

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 05:25:11 GMT

Affordable Home Idea in Lamar: Buy Big Lot, Add Your Manufactured Home

Here’s an affordable home idea to get what you need in Colorado. On the edge of Lamar, we are selling 28 big lots in a manufactured home subdivision. Half are half-acre lots and half are 1-acre lots. Buyers may own multiple lots, making this perfect for small ranches, too.

And the prices are right. The half-acre lots run $12,000 and the acre lots are $15,000. This amazing affordable home investment will give you the confidence to reel in your beautiful and spacious manufactured home.

This new Lamar subdivision is surrounded by fields on the west side of town. Lots are only accessible on a non-through street loop. Subdivision covenants allow up to 6 farm animals and chickens per lot. Utilities are installed in a utility easement. There owners may tap into city water, sewer, electricity, and gas.

Benefits of Manufactured Homes

The manufactured homes in this southeastern Colorado neighborhood must be newer. They can be only 5 years old. Our Lamar real estate agents can refer you to reputable manufactured home companies in outlying areas like Amarillo and Pueblo.

Let’s talk about the reasons to buy a manufactured home and put in on land you own.

Manufactured homes are usually less expensive than on-site construction. Median price of single-family home in the U.S. is about $225,000; the average price of a manufactured home is under $90,000. Imagine, you can get into your new home with $100,000 cash!
You can get more square feet of living area for your money.
Many aspects of the building process are better.
Mortgage financing with low interest rates and a 30-year fixed loan is possible. You must buy the lot and put the home on a basement or concrete foundation. (Remove the axles. Other foundations may restrict you to an expensive personal loan.)
You can build equity instead of paying rent.

Location of Lots for Sale in Lamar Colorado

From Lamar, drive west from Main and Maple to the city limit and continue a quarter mile on County Road HH.5. This brings you to the northeast corner of the property.

Real Estate Agents Lamar Colorado

For more information about getting into a Lamar lot and affordable home, please call Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802 . Schedule an appointment or stop in to visit at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. Specializing in Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales , Management, Auctions, and Exchanges.

Colorado Annual Avg Precipitation 1981-2010

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 05:25:10 GMT

Below is a map of Colorado showing the annual average precipitation in inches over a 30 year period from 1981 to 2010.

The average annual precipitation for Colorado is 15.47 inches.

Colorado experiences between only 30 and 40 overcast days per year leaving 300 plus days of full or partial sunshine.

More information on Colorado’s climate can be found on the Colorado Encyclopedia website located Here!

Buying Colorado Real Estate at Auctions Part 2

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 05:25:08 GMT

Buying Colorado Real Estate at Auctions Part 2

(Continued from “Buying Real Estate at Colorado Auctions”)

So now you have scoped out the auction scene and have taken note on interesting properties. After noting the details and contacting your real estate agent and/or attorney, are you ready? Do you know the terms and conditions of the real estate auction where you will bid? Be sure to have your finances in order and let’s go.

Zeroing-In on your Real Estate Auction

Begin your in-depth analysis by touring the farm, ranch, land, or home that piqued your interest. Walk the property, preferably through a tour given by the auction house or someone knowledgeable about the real estate. If this is a forced sale, arrangements may be more restricted. The former owner may still hold the title. Regardless, be sure to have permission to enter any private property.

Financing

Ask your real estate agent to supply a list of comparable properties in the area. These comps will give you a clearer standard and guide for your bidding. If you plan to use financing these comps become important for the bank to make decisions. Do get pre-qualified as necessary. Many auction rules require a down a payment during bidding as a safeguard. The highest bidder often needs to pay the full price when the auction ends.

Potential Problems

There can be some unexpected turns. Careful planning ahead of the auction will pay off in the end so you can feel confident in your real estate investment.

Sometimes a property may be auctioned but still occupied. You may need to file eviction notice to take possession. In many cases, a civil complaint and lawsuit may be in the cards.
Buyers often need to buy title insurance, especially if they receive a quick-claim deed.
Auctioneers and sellers may offer warranties to guarantee against future problems.
Not all auctions allow mortgages.
All liens on the property will be the responsibility of the highest bidder.

Time for the Auction

Confirm the time, date, and location of the auction. Come a half-hour early to register and fill out forms. Be able to prove you can pay if you are successful. When the bidding starts, the auctioneer will announce a minimum bid. Bid until you reach your limit. If you do win, it is time to complete the purchase and pay for your new real estate.

On the other hand, if you have been pre-approved, then you will sign a mortgage agreement. At closing comes the closing disclosure, escrow statement, and a promissory note saying how much you owe the bank. Closing may take another 45-60 days. The property will be yours when you pay the purchase price.

Colorado Real Estate Auction

The offices of Auctioneer Gene Cruikshank and Cruikshank Realty are at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. For more information about buying or selling homes , land, farms and ranches at Colorado auctions, please call at (719) 336-7802 . Auctioneer Licensed in Colorado, Oklahoma, Kansas, and New Mexico.

Real Estate at Colorado Auctions: Best Property for You – Pt 1

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 05:25:06 GMT

Buying Real Estate at Colorado Auctions:

 Scope Out the Best Auction Property for You – Part 1

If you have not considered buying real estate at Colorado auctions , why? Is it the fear of the unknown? Just relax and ease into the auction methods. The interesting options found at real estate auctions may be the necessary ingredient to boost your investment success. So, prepare yourself for the auction adventure and you may find yourself enjoying the journey.

How to Prep for a Real Estate Auction

What is the best auction property for you? It must be the one where you make a smart bid. But before bidding at any real estate auction, please be informed and conduct due diligence. Get some professionals on board, such as a real estate agent and/or attorney. The Realtor can value the property so you have comps and make the best decisions. Your attorney can also help get you ready for closing and transfer.

Look Around for Colorado Auctions

Now sleuth around. Auctions happen regularly in Colorado. Some are private estate auctions; others are government auctions. Most of the local Colorado auctions will be advertised in the local papers and search online. Keep your eyes open. In SE Colorado, we have many rural areas where property owners choose auctions to market their properties online to buyers outside the area.

Get Comfortable with Auctions

The more comfortable you become, the smarter you will be when you find the property that fulfills your needs and purpose. Attend some real estate auctions. They will educate you better than a book. Find out how everything works here in Colorado. Take in a variety of events and note some details. How do they run? What are the financial requirements? What is the vibe? And, what kinds of properties go on the auction block?

Get Details on Interesting Properties

If the time comes for you to get more involved, study the brochures for any interesting properties. Note the particulars: parcel number, size, location, access, restrictions. Find out about the terms and conditions, minimum bid required, reserve information, type of title, property taxes due, when you could take possession, and the conditions of the sale. Then tour the property and contact your real estate agent and/or attorney to get their input.

To be continued in Part 2

Colorado Real Estate Auctions

The offices of Realtor/Auctioneer Gene Cruikshank and Cruikshank Realty are at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. For more information about buying or selling homes, land, farms and ranches at Colorado auctions, please call at (719) 336-7802 . Auctioneer Licensed in Colorado, Oklahoma, Kansas, and New Mexico.

Colorado Auction Co.: Why More People Auction Farms

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 05:25:04 GMT

SE Colorado Auction Company: Why More Smart People Auction Farms and Land

Timing is an important aspect of real estate investing. Our SE Colorado Auction Company uses timing to help property owners in our four-state area to efficiently sell their farms, ranches, land, and homes. The Internet catapulted auctioneers and auction companies into a worldwide market for real estate auctions. We can reach buyers around the globe, often through online bidding. So, buyers now opt for auctions to accelerate the selling process.

Historically, most owners used real estate auction for distressed properties. However, an increasing number of modern-day sellers are now auctioning non-distressed properties: estates, farms, ranches, and land.

Why Property Owners Call our SE Colorado Auctioneers

What makes real estate auctions the method of choice for property owners? Here are 10 benefits to selling real estate via auctions make it all worth it.

Shorter Timeframes
Shorter timeframe. Sometimes a large rural property can sit on the market for months or years. A land auction can accelerate the timeline and move the real estate quickly. One advantage to selling sooner rather than later will be the elimination of carrying costs such as property taxes and lost income. If time is of the essence, sellers can agree to an Absolute Auction. This set-up offers the financial flexibility for sellers to agree to accept the highest bid, whatever it may be.
More Qualified Buyers
Qualified buyers from USA and around the world can more readily get involved in modern auctions. Buyers come financially prepared to jump on a great deal or desirable acreage. Online marketing can reach USA and international markets. Online auctions capitalize on the technical advantages.
Pricing Flexibility
Sellers may choose to set a “minimum bid” Before the auction begins to ensure the sale gives them the financial returns they want. However, during competitive bidding sessions, much higher bids and sale prices are possible.
Freedom to Sell or Not
Sellers can decide to sell or not. An Auction Reserve offers this alternative. Just because you have decided to auction a farm or ranch, you are not under obligation to sell if the price is not right. Our Colorado auction company would set it up with reserve to do so. Usually terms and conditions are abundantly clear ahead of time

SE Colorado Auctioneers

For more information about real estate auctions in Colorado and the region surrounding Lamar, please call Gene Cruikshank, Broker/President, Cruikshank Realty, Inc. at (719) 336-7802 . Schedule an appointment or stop in to visit at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. Specializing in Farm and Ranch Real Estate Auctions, Sales, Management, and Exchanges in Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico.

Farm Real Estate Sustains Great Land Value

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 05:25:03 GMT

It’s Great Farm Real Estate when Land Values Hold Their Own

United States farm real estate values measure the value of all land and buildings on farms. Even as we account for the past 15 years of growth, USA agricultural land values continue to march up. Increasing about $70 per acre year over year from 2016 to 2017 when they averaged $3,080 per acre. Other research breaks it down further to cropland and pastureland. Cropland goes for more than pastures.

United States Farm Real Estate Values

According to the USDA Summary (August 2017), farm real estate fetched an average of $1,270 per acre in 2003 and stepped up to $3,080 per acre in 2017. Cropland values are even higher. In 2003, the average acre sold for $1,660 and in 2017 it was up to $4,090. Average pasture values increased as well, from $605 to $1,350 per acre.

Regional Differences

Land values vary depending on the state and region. Imagine the overall variance. We saw an 8.7 percent increase in the Pacific region, 1.8 percent decrease in the Northern Plains region. The Corn Belt faired best while the Mountain region suffered. The United States cropland value remained unchanged even as values in the Southern Plains increased 6.0 percent. Pasture value in the USA increased $20 an acre from 2016 to 2017, with the highest increase in the Delta region (2.9 percent).

Lamar Colorado Farm Region

Cruikshank Realty and Auctions services a broad area, leading out from our main offices in Lamar, Colorado and extending into the nearby neighboring states of Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, and New Mexico. Here are some stats of average values per acre for these states:

Colorado, per acre: Farm Real Estate $1430; Pasture Value $760; Cropland $1920
Kansas, per acre: Farm Real Estate $1850; Pasture Value $1280; Cropland $1970
Oklahoma, per acre: Farm Real Estate $1900; Pasture Value $1470; Cropland $1740
Texas, per acre: Farm Real Estate $2090; Pasture Value $1650; Cropland $2010
New Mexico, per acre: Farm Real Estate $530; Pasture Value $360; Cropland $1480

What Buyers Need to Know

Statistics only tell a general story. Buyers need to know details about properties that not only fit your budget but will enable you to reach your goals. It’s the one best farm investment that’s best for you. Local farming experts can guide you to that specific farm or ranch. Prices are holding their own and it’s time to make that great farm investment.

Real Estate Agents Specializing in Colorado Land, Farms and Ranches

For more information about farms in the Lamar, Colorado region, please call Gene Cruikshank, Broker/President, Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802 and 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052 .

Schedule an appointment or stop in to Cruikshank Realty to find out why we specialize in Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales, Management, Auctions, and Exchanges.

Walsenburg Real Estate South/Central CO: Now & Then

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 05:25:02 GMT

Walsenburg Real Estate South/Central Colorado: Now and Then

Walsenburg real estate represents 150 years of American history. Now experiencing a quiet revitalization, Walsenburg touts a rich heritage, natural attractions, recreation, and central location in the USA. Get out into the Greenhorn Mountain National Wilderness Area, go birding or golf.

Set at a historic crossroads, Walsenburg is seat of Huerfano County, Colorado. It’s on the north side of the Cucharas River in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Scenic Byway of Legends (Colorado Highway 12) offers an escape for hiking, hunting, fishing, and sightseeing through the historic Southwest.

Walsenburg offers services and medical facilities. Retire, open a business or telecommute from this picturesque community. The community of 4000 residents has easy access to Interstate 25 running north/south along the city’s eastern edge. Route 160 and Highway 10 lead west and northeast from town. It is approximately 50 miles south of Pueblo.

Walsenburg Homes and Land for Sale

The Front Range real estate boom is reaching Walsenburg. Huge vacant parcels come at tantalizingly low prices as do some vast open lands and ranches for sale in Huerfano County. Buyers find great deals for homes for sale in Walsenburg and nearby communities such as Aguilar.

Stretch your dollars or invest a little here and there around Walsenburg. Ranchland for $500-$1000 an acre; cottages for $100,000?

For example, look at these current listings:

4.7 acres with views of the mountains, power on site. $13,000
Navajo Ranch property with 9.26 acres with nice build sites and an existing doublewide. News of Mt. Mestas, Silver Mt. and valley. $79,900
2.25 acre build site at Comanche and Seminole Place with views of Spanish Peaks. $12,500
Scenic 40-acres with home for sale in Aguilar, south of Walsenburg. $310,000

Amenities in Walsenburg

The small community offers a big plate of activities. Attend a chuckwagon dinner, Celtic Music Festival and events at Miner’s Park, farmers and artisan’s markets, festivals and a myriad host of events in nearby small communities.

Close to home, relax at the Walsenburg Municipal Golf Course to take in the stunning views of the Spanish Peaks and wander into the adjoining Lathrop State Park. Visit Walsenburg Mining Museum inside the historic jail behind the stately courthouse. Or set out with a fishing pole and relax at the high mountain lakes and streams or rivers and reservoirs in the area.

History

Part of the Old Wild West, the Cucharas Valley has been home to many colorful characters. Early settlers from Hispanic, indigenous Indian, and Anglo backgrounds arrived and fought for territory and resources. One Fred Walton came from Germany in 1859 and built a home here in Plaza de los Leones. His general store became a regional supply center. Longhorn cattlemen came from Texas, gold and coal miners came to work the 50 mines, and the town grew around its hotels, library stables, banks, and ranches. River travel, stagecoaches, and railroad helped transport people, coal, sheep, and cattle.

Sheepherders brought flocks here during the winter time, buffalo hunting expeditions came up from New Mexico. Some of the first adobe homes built here – properties with walls to 2-3 feet thick – still stand. Walsenburg became the Gateway to the Real Southwest.

Directions

From Denver, take Interstate 25 south to Walsenburg. From Lamar, Colorado, take Highway 50 west. In La Junta, turn left on Dalton Avenue/Route 10 to Walsenburg.

Real Estate Agents Specializing in Colorado Acreage

For more information, please call Gene Cruikshank at (719) 336-7802 . Cruikshank Realty is located at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. Specializing in Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales , Management, Auctions, and Exchanges.

Lamar Real Estate for Sale: Affordable Colorado Homes

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 04:25:31 GMT

Lamar real estate for sale in Eastern Colorado turns out to be one of the most affordable towns in all of Colorado. While home prices around the state continue to climb, you will still find affordable properties in Lamar. Being located 175 miles southeast of Denver, the affordability of Lamar homes may just woo you to our charming neighborhoods and wide-open farms.

How Affordable are Homes in Lamar Colorado?

SmartAsset’s annual report deemed Lamar homes for sale one of the best options in Colorado. Researchers considered these five criteria:

Closing costs
Annual property tax
Annual homeowner’s insurance
Average annual mortgage payment
Median income of residents

They calculated the ration between median incomes and total housing costs for an average house. Lamar won the contest!

Recently Sold Real Estate

Popular Lamar Neighborhoods

For a glimpse of residential real estate in Lamar, have a look around downtown. The median home price is way under $100,000. But keep looking. Boasting an agricultural based economy, our Lamar agents can also fit you into the dream of owning a farm house. First, look at the following popular neighborhoods in town.

Cedar Hills is an area developed in the late 1930s and homes were built for the next couple of decades. Cozy cottages and ranch style homes range from 900-2500 square feet. The picturesque neighborhood features mature landscaping as does Mayhew Heights where it sits southwest of historic downtown Lamar on Mayhew Drive. These cottage homes were built on 0.2+-acre lots in the 1950s. And, with prices under $150,000, the quaint homes are a steal.

South of downtown are more tall trees on the west side of Memorial Drive. Appropriately named, Woodland subdivision features amazing views, finished streets, and one-third-acre lots. Just before the hospital southeast of downtown is the Willow Valley subdivision. Willow Valley is modern, classy, and comfortable. It backs to Fort Bent Canal in an area where spacious homes of 2000-2500 square feet sit on large lots. Quail Ridge , another newer neighborhood, features Lamar homes on 2-acre lots off CR 8.2 south of downtown. Lot prices begin at $12,000; home prices are in the $300,000s.

Town of Lamar and Prowers County

Now home to 13,000 residents, the growing community of Lamar, Colorado is the seat and largest city in Prowers County. Lamar sits at Highways 385 and 50. In Lamar, visit unique shops and diners and several attractions. Annual events like the High Plains Snow Goose Festival will remind you how friendly smaller towns can be. Recreational facilities include parks, an 9-hole public golf course, John Martin reservoir State Park to fish, boat, hike, and view giant white snow geese. This is a scenic area replete with large pastures, fields of corn, and grazing horses.

Lamar is on the Santa Fe Trail, American Discovery Trail, and the Amtrak route. Attractions include the restored 1907 train depot, a train engine, and a 100-year-old windmill and water tank. Big Timbers Museum documents life on the frontier, the Dust Bowl, and Camp Amache National Historic Landmark. Madonna of the Trail Monument pays tribute to the days of covered wagons. Coming from Kansas, stop by our Welcome Center located along Route 50 and learn a little about Lamar, her history, and the area around Prowers County.

Nearby towns include Granada, Hartman, Holly, Wiley, and Bristol. Prowers County is bordered by Kiowa County on the north, the Kansas border on the east, Baca County on the south, and Bent County on the west.

Lamar Schools

Students attend Parkview and Washington elementary, Alta Vista Charter, Lamar Middle, and Lamar High schools.

Lamar Colorado Real Estate Agents

For more information, please call Gene Cruikshank, Broker/President or other real estate agents at Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802. Cruikshank Realty is located at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. Specializing in Residential, Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales, Management, Auctions, and Exchanges.

Real Estate Agents in Lamar Colorado

For more information, please call Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802. The offices of Cruikshank Realty are located at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052.

Colorado Auction Company Sells 160 Acres Baca County

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 04:25:30 GMT

Colorado Auction Company: Sold Auction 160 Acres in Baca County. Our Colorado auction company at Cruikshank Realty, Inc., completed this farm land auction in Walsh Township. Acreage on the auction block included 151.41 acres of cropland, usually for wheat, grain sorghum, and barley.

This Baca County farm features 81 percent Richfield Silt Loam, Class III, and 19 percent Baca Clay Loam, Class IV. It is already planted with 50 acres each of sorghum and wheat. All mineral rights conveyed with the sale. The Baca County auction was held a half mile north of the Intersection of Highways 89 and 116 in Southeastern Colorado.

Bent County Auction News

Every year, Cruikshank Realty conducts several auctions, some onsite and others online. Additional land auctions in Bent County give us a better idea of nearby auction news. Eastern Colorado, Western Kansas, and Northern Oklahoma and New Mexico are included in our area of emphasis. Recent properties include:

The Roesch Auction offered opportunity to place phone bids for 235 acres of irrigated farmland. Underground water line from the canal supplies irrigation. This property favored wheat and corn and is being sold with 1/2d sellers interest in minerals. Under contract. Pick up a bidder’s packet at www.2cr2.com.

A mile west of Hasty, Colorado, additional Bent County grassland sold at auction. More than 930 acres of Sharp Farm sold with a well, two tanks, and 100 percent of mineral rights.

The Lamar Colorado Region

Our lifelong presence in the region of Lamar, Colorado gives us great insight into area real estate and property. Our Colorado auction company may be in Lamar, but we travel around the area to buy and sell property, to evaluate properties, and to hold auctions. It pays to study the natural resources of the prairie and the plains. It is beautiful country and demands respect.

Let’s look at inherent value. Geography in the prairies north of us and in the plains where Lamar is located supports native species. It’s true that native gardening on the Eastern Plains will be very low maintenance. Ranches, for instance, often feature native trees and grasses that require little water.

But to introduce other species, it may take some knowhow. Farmers select crops that thrive in the climate and with the available amount of rain and irrigation. In our region receives an average of 10 to 20 inches of precipitation annually.

Buyers at auction need good information to make informed decisions. They may ask about other water sources, including nearby streams, ponds, irrigation canals. They need to know soil composition and quality and what they may be able to produce on the land. Depending on your purposes, we can help guide you towards your goals.

Auctioneers – Homes, Land, Farms and Ranches

For more information, please call Realtor/Auctioneer Gene Cruikshank at (719) 336-7802. The offices of Cruikshank Realty are located at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. Auctioneer Licensed in Colorado, Oklahoma, Kansas, and New Mexico.

Make a Winning Offer to Buy Colorado Real Estate

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 04:25:28 GMT

Make a Winning Offer to Buy Colorado Real Estate

How do you land the best home for you in a competitive Colorado real estate market ? Sellers may receive more than one bid for the property that you want. That is why you had best assume that both your offer and your demeanor could affect the outcome. Be sure to work with a buyer’s real estate agent in the Southeast Colorado market , someone who can effectively help and who represents your interests.

Now, think what can be done to improve your offer and favorability with seller. Can you sell yourself, or maybe your dog’s pedigree?

Show Financial Strength

First off, get preapproved by your bank. Stay within your means and financial comfort level. This reduces anxiety and creates calmness, a curious requirement for success. The bank preapproval letter put the seller at ease. It shows the Seller that you are financially able to close the deal. Also, prepare the necessary paperwork to show financial strength. Bank statements, preapproval letter, proof of funds. Allow some wiggle room in the amount stated on the preapproval letter to give you room to raise your bid.

Be Ready to Pounce

Be ready. Some homes sell immediately during open house. Bring the letter along to all showings. If you love the home, do not hesitate. You need to move quickly when a property fills your needs if not the opportunity may be lost. Another buyer came more prepared.

Make a Good Offer

Make a good offer. Don’t lowball the seller. Those strategies come across as insulting. Your real estate agent can guide you through a fair analysis of the market.

Home Inspection

No matter the property, have it inspected. Even if you are buying a new home, get it inspected. You would be surprised at some of the issues a construction worker may overlook. And if you are buying from friends or family, please do not skip that inspection either. Better to know upfront of the problems like termites, previous flooding, or the any need to sink money into the home.

Pleasing Personality

Sellers often invest years of their lives in the home of interest. This creates sentimental attachment and memories. If the sellers are present, express appreciation for your favorite parts of the home and forget grumbling about details. A positive attitude tells them you will care for their beloved property.

Present Yourself to the Sellers

Compose a personal letter to the sellers, introducing you and your family. On an episode of “Property Brothers,” Drew informed his clients of something that mattered. It turns out that their personal letter won the hearts of the sellers. They enclosed a picture of their Golden Retriever, a breed loved by both parties.

5 Home Staging Tips for a Faster Sale

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 04:25:27 GMT

Staging Tips That Help Homes Sell Quickly

Home Staging Tips for a Faster Sale: The numbers don’t lie; often well-staged homes can see faster sales and higher offers than their cluttered counterparts. The key is getting an early start on the process. By beginning the monumental task of clearing the clutter and doing a pre-pack now, you can reduce the stress of preparing for showings and make it easier to move when your home sells.

Try these five staging and organizing tips to help you reach a faster sale.

Purge From Top to Bottom — Do a proper sort and purge, getting rid of outdated clothing, duplicate items and rarely used gadgets. To keep this task from turning into a source of serious frustration, tackle one room (or even one drawer) at a time.

Pack Up Everything but the Essentials — Start pre-packing your home, storing non-essentials or out-of-season gear in the garage or off-site. The idea is to give potential buyers a sense of space, which can’t be done if your home is overloaded with clutter.

Fix Glaring Problems — Remove out-of-style wallpaper, replace broken light fixtures, update cabinet and drawer pulls, and refresh dated window treatments. Simple fixes like these can make your home stand out from the competition.

Depersonalize — Remove family pictures and personal collections, and replace them with neutral artwork and simple accessories. The idea is to give potential buyers a neutral canvas so they can imagine their belongings in your home.

Go for Polished — Research the latest design trends and stage your house to match. Professional stagers recommend tailoring the design style to your target demographic. For example, if you’re in a family neighborhood, style the bedrooms for children, even if none live in your home.

5 Helpful Tips for Buying a Second Home

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 04:25:26 GMT

Vacation Home or Investment Property?

Looking for a Second Home? Thinking about buying an investment property for steady cash flow? Want a vacation home for your family or a temporary home for your college-bound son or daughter? There are a few things you should consider before making the investment:

Local Market — Both the local resale and rental markets are important factors. Are home prices on the rise, increasing the possibility of a profitable sale in the future? Is the rental market tight, causing average rent prices to go up? You’ll want your rental income to be able to cover mortgage costs, taxes and expenses.

Maintenance — When calculating costs, include routine maintenance and potential repairs. If purchasing a property to rent out, note any requirements and safety obligations for your area. If you’re not the handy type or your desired property is far from your primary residence, consider hiring a property management company to handle ongoing maintenance concerns.

Costs of a Second Home

Insurance Costs — Find out if you need additional disaster coverage such as flood or earthquake insurance. In general expect to pay higher insurance costs, especially if you plan on renting out the property.

Financing — Plan on being subjected to more scrutiny than you were on your primary residence. Banks often require a higher down payment on second homes, and interest rates may be higher as well.

Tax Implications — Make sure you understand the tax implications of owning a second property. If you plan on renting it out, you’ll need to report the rental payments as income. On the other hand, operating expenses, such as insurance, utilities and repairs, may be considered deductions.

Your Credit Score: What It Means & How to Improve It

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 04:25:24 GMT

Where does your credit score stand?

Your Credit Score: Are you considering making a major purchase, like buying a home, this year? If so, your credit score will likely come into play. An understanding of the basics can help you effectively monitor and manage it.

Credit Score 101
Your credit score will usually range from 300 to 850. It’s derived from an algorithm that takes into account several factors, including payment history, the total debt owed and length of credit history.

Lenders use this three-digit number to predict risk and the likelihood that you’ll repay your debt on time. The higher your credit score, the less risk you are and the lower your loan terms will be. For example, a person with a “good” credit score of 700 may have a lower interest rate and smaller required down payment than someone with a “poor” credit score of 400.

How to Improve Your Score
If you don’t have much credit history or you have a few negatives on your report, consider these strategies to increase your score.

Pay all of your bills on time. Late payments can negatively impact your score.
Pay off debt where you can. The less debt you have, the lower your debt-to-income ratio.
Keep your credit card balances as low as possible, aiming to use no more than 30 percent of your available credit. And pay off as much as you can each month since higher balances can sink your score.
Review your credit report at least annually, and keep an eye out for mistakes and identity theft.

Make a Statement with Your Front Door

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 04:25:22 GMT

Is it time to replace your front door?

Your front door is one of the first things guests notice when visiting your home. In addition to providing security and protection, your front door can make a bold statement and reflect your personal style.

But whether or not your current front door matches your home’s interior and your taste, if you feel a draft, see any cracks or hear squeaky joints or scraping sounds, it may be time to replace it. Consider your options with some of the most common front door materials and features.

Materials

Wood : Though beautiful, solid wood doors are expensive and sensitive to the elements. Some modern wood doors come with steel cores to minimize warping and reduce cost.
Fiberglass : A durable and cost-effective option is a fiberglass composite door. Their foam cores are good insulators, and they can withstand harsh climates.
Steel : Strong but subject to dents, steel doors are the least expensive of the three. They have shorter life spans and aren’t well-suited for extreme climates, but depending on their core, they can be energy efficient.

Styles

There are multiple styles to choose from, including:

Solid panel doors
Arched doors
Dutch or split doors
Double doors
Decorative doors with glass inserts
Frosted glass doors with ornamental wrought iron overlaid for added security

You could even complement your front door with sidelights or a transom window while also letting in more outside light.

Colors

The color of your front door should depend mostly on the exterior style and colors of your house, your personal taste and the type of door chosen. If your house is mostly neutral in color, don’t be afraid to go bold with your front door.

Use these tips to help make your front door an inviting entrance that not only offers protection from the elements but also reflects your personal style.

Emergency Preparedness: Creating Emergency Binder

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 04:25:20 GMT

How to be Prepared for an Emergency

Emergency Preparedness: Do you know what vital information to have on hand in the event of a natural disaster or family emergency? When an unexpected situation arises, there’s no time to sort through paperwork, no matter how essential it may be. Having everything you need in an organized emergency binder can streamline the process and give you peace of mind.

What to Include in an Emergency Binder
While there’s no shortage of important family documents and household records, a true emergency calls for a few must-haves:

Vital records like birth certificates, driver’s licenses, Social Security cards, naturalization documents, passports and child custody papers.
Insurance policies, including homeowners, renters, auto, life and health.
Property records such as real estate deeds, rental agreements, and vehicle titles and registration.
Financial documents like wills, trusts, powers-of-attorney and funeral instructions.
A family emergency plan with contact information and predetermined meeting places.

Safely Storing Other Important Information
Some items, such as account passwords and a backup of critical computer files, aren’t suited for a portable binder. Instead, house them in a secure location like a safety deposit box or lockbox. You can also include a home inventory list, contracts, business paperwork, tax returns and investment records.

When it comes to Emergency Preparedness play it safe and include a recent photograph of every family member, along with fingerprints and dental records. You may also want to store valuable memorabilia, jewelry, and priceless family photos, letters and documents here as well.

There’s no way to predict when misfortune will strike, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be prepared. Set aside an afternoon to create an emergency binder that can help protect your family when time is of the essence.

Make an Annual Home Maintenance Checklist

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 04:25:19 GMT

Create a Home Maintenance Checklist

Home Maintenance Checklist: Your vehicle requires routine maintenance to run smoothly, and the same goes for your house. Without service reminders, however, it can be easy to forget to tend to all the systems that keep your house fully functioning. Fortunately, you can create a simple annual maintenance checklist to properly care for your home and prevent potential issues from becoming major problems.

Start by making a list of each task you’ll need to complete over the coming year. Make sure your yearly home inspection includes all major systems (HVAC, electrical and plumbing), the interior and exterior of your home, water and septic tanks, doors and windows, and the attic or basement if applicable.

When that’s done, organize the list according to how often each item needs to be checked or maintained and set reminders accordingly. Your home maintenance checklist might start to look similar to this:

Monthly

Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Change air filters in the heating and air conditioning system.
Clean range hood filters to avoid possible grease fires.
Trim back any shrubbery or plant growth around the outdoor HVAC unit by at least 18 inches.

Quarterly

Check and wipe down sliding doors and window tracks.
Replace batteries in smoke detectors.
Test garage door and grease tracks as needed.

Semiannually

Clear gutters of spring and fall foliage.
Power wash windows and siding.
Schedule seasonal service of the HVAC system before summer and winter.

Annually

Inspect and insulate pipes to protect them from freezing.
Trim trees and shrubs away from the home’s exterior.
Touch up exterior paint and check for wood rot or water damage.
Check grouting in kitchen and bathroom and repair if necessary.

A home maintenance checklist will make it easier for you to manage the upkeep of your house. It can also help you catch minor issues before they become costly home repairs.

Buy a Fixer-upper or a Move-in Ready Home?

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 03:55:39 GMT

Should you buy a Fixer-upper or a move-in ready home?

Buy Fixer Upper or Move-in Ready Home? Shows like HGTV’s “Fixer Upper” have popularized the idea of buying and renovating the worst house on the best block. Homes that need major remodeling, however, aren’t for everyone. Sometimes a move-in ready house is a better option. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of each.

Pros of Fixer-Uppers

Lower price — Homes that require some updating tend to be priced lower, and many renovations can quickly add value to your home.
Creative control — When you’re the one in charge of updating your home, you can customize it however you choose.

Cons of Fixer-Uppers

Delayed move-in — The planning and work involved to fix it up can significantly delay your move-in date.
Unexpected costs — No matter how well you plan, major renovations are always subject to unforeseen expenses.

Pros of Move-In Ready

Quick move-in — Can’t wait to begin nesting? With a finished home, you can start moving in as soon as you get your keys.
Energy-efficient technology — New and renovated homes are often outfitted with the latest energy-efficient options when it comes to kitchen appliances and heating and cooling systems, which can save you money over time.

Cons of Move-In Ready

More expensive — To recoup the costs of updating, sellers often price move-in ready homes much higher. These homes also don’t allow for easy customization.
Questionable quality — When you’re not there to oversee the update process, you’re unable to ensure that high-quality work and materials are used for your home.

Still not sure which approach is right for you? Take this quiz to help you decide if you’re ready for a fixer upper.

Calculating Value with Home Renovations

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 03:55:38 GMT

Calculating the value of Home Renovations: Home renovation reality shows have inspired many homeowners to consider costly upgrades for their own homes. While many home improvement projects are worthwhile, it’s important to know which ones are worth it from an investment standpoint.

Considerations to keep in mind when you’re deciding on a renovation project.

Value Added (or Subtracted) for Future Buyers

Think of your renovation project in terms of what will appeal most to potential buyers, even if you’re not considering selling anytime soon. Converting a garage into a living space or eliminating a bedroom or a closet may cause future buyers to cross your home off the list; these spaces are among the most important to potential homeowners.

Many buyers won’t even look at homes that lack the right number of bedrooms, and a garage ranks as one of the most popular amenities in newly built homes.

Project Payoff

Be cautious when undertaking large-scale renovation projects. While smaller DIY touch-ups and proper home staging can yield big dividends for sellers, large projects may not always pay off.

Remodeling magazine’s 2016 Cost vs. Value Report showed that replacement projects, like changing a front or garage door, offer serious gains

Which large projects pack the most punch when it comes to adding value? Two-story additions, master suite upgrades and major kitchen remodels top the list.

Your Neighborhood’s Market Conditions

Consider the resale market in your neighborhood before deciding on a renovation project. This is particularly important if you’re considering large-scale projects, like a full kitchen renovation or converting an attic space into an extra bedroom.

Every neighborhood has a price threshold of what buyers are willing to pay, so a $75,000 kitchen remodel may not be worth it in a neighborhood where home values top out at $200,000.

Decide your Purpose and Bid at Land Auctions

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 13:45:03 GMT

Decide your Purpose and Bid at Land Auctions

People get involved with land auctions as investments and owning land to grow crops and raise animals. If you’re interested in getting involved and placing a bid at a land auction, start investigating. Land auctions can include expansive acreages, equipment, and real property. You will find greater flexibility and potential growth in rural and agricultural markets. Let’s intelligently decide whether to bid at farm or ranch auctions.

Purpose: Investing in Farms and Ranches

there are compelling reasons to get involved at farm and ranch auctions. These options often present opportunities to acquire valuable land at competitive prices. Sometimes they are below market value and this can lead to significant returns on investment. Additionally, owning agricultural property can diversify your portfolio and provide income through leasing, farming, or future resale. Auctions may also highlight unique properties unseen through traditional real estate channels.

Purpose: Growing Crops

Starting to grow crops on acquired farm properties requires careful planning and preparation. To ensure success, Prepare to remediate problems. Because older farmland may need amendments due to previous use or neglect, begin by evaluating the soil quality and fertility. Conduct soil tests to determine the nutrient levels and the pH. Address the deficiencies with appropriate fertilizers or organic matter.

You will want to secure reliable water sources, established fencing or boundaries, and invest in basic equipment that is suited to your intended scale of production. Inspirational steps will help you restore and utilize old farm properties effectively or crop cultivation.

Purpose: Ranch Operation

If you want to begin ranching, define your goals and objectives. What animals would you like to raise? Beef cattle, dairy cows, sheep, llama, horses? Is this a commercial or family operation? It could be a hobby ranch. Determine the size, soil, water, and infrastructure needs for your purposes and plan.

Attach costs, expenses, income, marketing, and structures needed: barns, stables, sheds, filters, fencing, corrals, feed and water systems, equipment such as fruits, trailers, and machinery. Is this a one man operation or will you hire out the jobs?

Due Diligence before Bidding at Land Auctions

Once your purposes are clear, carefully investigate the property. Dig into these details and ask questions.

Thoroughly search the title. Be sure there are no outstanding liens or encumbrances on the farm or ranch.
Use a professional surveyor to verify the boundaries and acreage. This will help avoid disputes and unpleasant surprises.
Review zoning laws and land use restrictions. Be certain your purposes align with the local regulations.
Inspect the property in person if possible. Check out the condition, access points, and the existing infrastructure.
Find out about flood zones, protected habitats, and soil contamination issues.
Understand the water rights and availability to your farm or ranch.
Estimate all costs associated with the project. This includes taxes, insurance, and maintenance, as well as the purchase price.
Research auction terms and conditions, including deposit requirements and closing deadlines.
Consult with legal and financial experts to clarify the contract details and your financing options.
Study the local market to assess property values and resale potential as well as market for crops and livestock in your plans.

If you decide to join the excitement of onsite or online land auctions, welcome to a world we also enjoy.

Colorado Farm and Land Auctions – Brokers

Please call Gene Cruikshank, Broker/President/Auctioneer at Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802 or drop into

Cruikshank Realty at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052.

Specializing in Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales , Management, Auctions, and Exchanges. Licensed in Colorado, Oklahoma, Kansas,

and New Mexico.

8 Tips for Relocation: Cities to Small Towns in Eastern Colorado

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 13:45:02 GMT

8 Tips for Relocation: Cities to Small Towns in Eastern Colorado

If you’ve decided to get out of the big cities and head to a small towns in Eastern Colorado , embrace the rural lifestyle. Here are eight tips to help adjust to Eastern Colorado. that’s where you’ll notice a different rhythm, community ties, comfort-ability in nature, and a strong heritage.

What You’ll Find in Eastern Colorado

Sweeping prairies surround the small agrarian communities in the High Plains. Big skies abound. Agriculture breezes into the lifestyle. People rise with the sun to tend crops and livestock. Changing weather and Mother Nature may call farmers and ranchers to awaken early—up till the long winters offer time for reflection.

Communities feature neighborly warmth and resilience. Close-knit relationships flourish in the small towns and every place in between where residents understand the need to help each other. Potlucks and churches, gatherings, county fairs, and school events create a strong social fabric. Joint purpose brings people out to bail hay, repair fences, and to organize larger fairs and events.

The deep connection to the land, to the open landscape, opens extrasensory powers. You can hear a thunderstorm from far away, even the grazing pronghorns, and you’ll take moments to notice wildflowers blooming along the roadside. People garden, fish, and hike through the whispering fields.

You’ll also find out that families have passed down farms for generations and convey a knowledge of subtleties as well. Find the old timers that will tell you stories. They can point out details and open your heart to a fascination with nature so expect the honesty and humility that comes with arduous work and strong interpersonal relationships in the local cultures.

Still Merging with the Modern World

Not all will be brand new to you. Colorado has adapted to the modern world. You’ll find tractors equipped with GPS and high-speed Internet use for remote schooling and work. Some of these modern amenities may be more limited than you’re used to, but you’ll find the small local stores in farmers markets, small cafés and diners, favorable assets, too. And some people work mobile.

So, the threads of tradition, cooperation and enduring connections to the lands are built on parallel paths over many generations where pioneers and homesteaders preferred the economic uncertainties, isolation, and testy weather to the Interstates and traffic in the metropolitan areas. This gives space for enjoying spectacular sunsets. It gives the satisfaction of having completed physical tasks, and it rewards the residents of homes in Eastern Colorado with the ability to see the twinkling stars night after night.

8 Tips for Success

So be wise and embrace the goodness of small agrarian towns in Eastern Colorado. Homes for sale in Eastern Colorado will surprise you with lower price tags and lots more space. May these 8 tips make it a fun and rewarding choice!

Embrace the slower pace and gentle or rhythm. Love the quiet mornings and absence of crowds and delve into the muted beauty all around you.
Build relationships. Introduce yourself and extend your heart. Create long-term connections.
Get involved locally by joining community events and volunteering, attending town meetings. Participate.
Support local businesses. Shop at family run stores in farmers markets and small cafés. You’ll find unique items and help the local economy to flourish.
Learn the landscape. Study the geography, traditions, and history of your new Colorado town. If you understand the local environment, you will feel more rooted.
Adapt your expectations. There will be fewer amenities and services as you find in the city. For example, your Internet service may be slower. Take the time to simplify.
Discover new hobbies that connect you to your surroundings. You might find gardening and hiking, building and creating to be extremely rewarding in this new cycle.
And be patient and respectful of long-standing customs and ways of doing things in your new community.

Realtors – Colorado Land, Farms and Ranches

For more information about relocating to Eastern Colorado, call Cruikshank Realty at (719) 336-7802 . Schedule an appointment or come see us at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052.

Best Real Estate Auctions for Buyers on a Budget

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 13:45:02 GMT

Best Real Estate Auctions for Buyers on a Budget

If you are on a budget and are thinking about real estate auctions , look for absolute auctions. In an absolute auction, the highest bidder wins. So, you know where you stand. What the industry refers to as “minimum bid” auctions could also suit your needs. If the required opening bid falls into your budget and you have done your research, go for it.

Due Diligence

To improve your success at any auction, plan to put in the time necessary to be knowledgeable. First off, look at the rules for the auction and make sure you’re able to follow them. For example, be sure the auction is still accepting bids! Note the fees and the premiums. Can you meet the payment deadline? If all that looks good to you, start researching.

Prepare Finances for an Auction

In any case, to be successful at an auction, make sure to prepare your finances. Can you meet the payment deadline? If all that looks good to you, start researching. For cash deals, you may need to show proof of funds. If you plan to finance the purchase, ask your lender for pre-approval. And realize that some auctions require total payment within 30 days.

Research the Property

Look at the records on file for the property, check out values of comparable properties in the area. Determine the property’s value and the value to you. Make sure the location, zoning, and covenants appeal to your goals for the property’s uses.

Inspect the Auction Property

If it all looks good, it is time to inspect the property. Knowing that most property owners sell at auction in “as-is” condition, it is in your best interest to hire a professional inspector. Find out when the property is open or schedule a tour.

Financial Advantages of Real Estate Auctions

Real estate auctions often help budget buyers acquire property at lower prices than traditional transactions. The key, however, is knowing what you were getting into. Any property may require more cash input for fixes, remodeling, or upgrades. If you are short on cash, consider the possibilities of obtaining a construction loan in the future.

Choosing the Right Auction for Your Budget

If you are working with limited resources and find a property you want at auction, focus on finding auctions with rules that suit your situation. Absolute and minimum-bid real estate auctions can often be more accessible for budget-conscious buyers. Regardless of auction type, always ensure your finances are ready and invest time in researching the property thoroughly before you commit.

Auctioneers and Property Auctions

Call Auctioneer Gene Cruikshank and Cruikshank Realty, Inc. at (719) 336-7802 . Based in Lamar, Colorado, our team offers complete real estate auction services and normal private treaty marketing. Licensed in Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico.

Homes for Sale in Springfield Colorado with Big Interiors

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 13:45:01 GMT

Homes for Sale in Springfield Colorado with Big Interiors

You’d be surprised at the big interiors that can be found in older homes for sale in Springfield Colorado . Springfield sits in north-central Baca County, about 30 miles north of the Oklahoma state line. It’s 47 miles south of Cruikshank real estate offices in Lamar. And we have a couple of charmers to make the point.

Homes for Sale in Springfield Colorado

Now let’s get back to our real estate listings with surprisingly big interiors and established Springfield neighborhoods. The prices are quite different from those found in big cities, making Springfield a wonderful place to start a family or retire.

Listing ID #231006

261 E. 8th Ave. in Springfield, CO 81073 is a three bedroom two bath home built in 1920. It features 3092 ft.² of living area and sits on two private fenced lots (0.321 acres) in town.

The interior features a modern kitchen with lots of storage and counter space, a big open family room, and a favorite sunroom that opens to the backyard. Large bedrooms and an unfinished basement. Make this home comfortable with flexible configurations. There’s a two car garage and a two car detached carport.

Listing ID #232700

Located at 620 S. 7th St., Springfield, CO 81073 is priced at $170,000. This is a four bedroom two bath home built in 1950 with 1967 ft.² of interior space it sits on a Lot in town measuring 0.155 acres. The yard features a wonderful vegetable garden.

This well maintained property welcomes immediate occupancy. Buyers will enjoy new laminate flooring and a flex/dining area with its antique wood-burning stove. There are convenient bathrooms on each level. But there’s more space in the finished basement.

Living in Springfield CO

Although many states have a community named Springfield, Springfield, Colorado may be one of the tiniest. Unbelievably, it’s the largest city and county seat in Baca County Colorado. Covering 1.1 square miles, the friendly town serves 1300 residents.

Springfield represents rural America. It’s surrounded by farms and agricultural properties in southeastern Colorado. We know Springfield CO for its occasional community activities and school competitions.

How did Springfield Begin?

Enterprising settlers from Springfield in Missouri. In 1886, brothers Frank and Jim Tipton settled in nearby Las Animas. Then, using their “soldiers’ script”, a kind of homestead. The title to 80 acres allowed them to plan for the original Springfield, Colorado townsite.

CO Agricultural Real Estate

In addition to in-town properties, Springfield offers lots of opportunities to enjoy farms and ranches in southeastern Colorado. Growing season for many crops adapts to the cool, semi-arid climate. During hot summertime days, the area receives occasional thunderstorms. Surprises come when the winter shuffles the weather patterns. It may be warmer and windier or colder and quieter. Springfield has been an agricultural community for over 140 years.

Springfield CO Location

U.S. Routes 287 and 385 pass through the center of Springfield in SE Colorado. Just south of town, U.S. 160 leads west 120 miles to Trinidad, Colorado, and east 50 miles to Johnson City, Kansas. And a few miles away, private aircraft come and go to the Springfield Municipal Airport. For these parts of the United States, Springfield serves as a small crossroads.

Realtors – Springfield Colorado

Older homes for sale in Springfield, Colorado often hide spacious interiors. We have some winsome properties to show. Discover more about the area in Southeastern Colorado.

Call Cruikshank Realty, Inc. (719) 336-7802 to schedule an appointment or stop by our office at 20 S. Main Street, Lamar, CO 81052. Specializing in Residential, Farm and Ranch Real Estate Sales , Management, Auctions, and Exchanges.

The Cruikshank Realty Blog

SE Colorado Gems: Daytrips near Prowers County Homes

Experience the Outdoors

Diving into History

Festivals and Local Flavor

Hidden Treasures and Family Fun

Searching Prowers County Homes for Sale

Selling Your Home Quickly in a Slow Market: Property Auctions

Discover Farms for Sale in Lamar Colorado

Discover Farms for Sale in Lamar Colorado

Opportunities for Family Homes

Know Lamar’s Farming Communities

Options for Young Families

Learning and Growing Together

Community Support and Activities

Why Explore Farms for Sale near Lamar

The Pros and Cons of Land Auctions in Colorado

The Pros and Cons of Land Auctions in Colorado

Pros of Land Auctions in Colorado

Cons of Land Auctions

Conclusion

How to Prep Farms & Ranches for Sale and Profits

How to Prep Farms & Ranches for Sale and Profits

1. First Impressions Matter: Clean & Declutter

2. Fix What’s Broken: Address Deferred Maintenance

3. Boost Your Curb Appeal—Yes, Even for Rural Properties

4. Gather Key Documents That Build Buyer Trust

5. Highlight Potential Income

6. Market to the Right Audience with a Pro

7. Turn-Key Sells: Make It Easy for Buyers to Say Yes

Final Thoughts to Prep Farms & Ranches for Sale

Streamlined Auctions Simplify Closing Processes

Streamlined Auctions Simplify Closing Processes

Auction Processes

Buyers and Sellers Know the Rules

Auctions Remain Focused

Traditional Real Estate Transactions

Auctions: Turn Farms and Ranches into Fast Cash

Auctions: Turn Farms and Ranches into Fast Cash

How Auctions Speed up Cash Results

Streamlined Processes

Cash Buyers

Targeted Marketing

Competitive Bidding

Summarizing: Auctions Help Liquidate Land

Find your Niche in SE Colorado with Lamar Homes

How Real Estate Auctions Allow Sellers more Control

Revive the Walsenburg Real Estate Market

Revive the Walsenburg Real Estate Market

Old Time Walsenburg Colorado

Today in Walsenburg

Land Auctions Spur Competitive Bidding for Best Return

Auction Sales Help in Agriculture Where Time is Money

Auction Sales Help in Agriculture Where Time is Money

Farmers and Ranchers Like How Auction Sales Help

Predictable Auction Rules and Timelines

Generating Urgent Interest

More Benefits of Auctions for Farm and Ranch Properties

Conclusion – Auctioning Farms & Ranches

Auction – 5000 Head Sow Unit in Bent County

Available for Bid

Tis the Season to Invest: SE Colorado Farm in Holly CO

Tis the Season to Invest: SE Colorado Farm in Holly CO

Location of Colorado Farm in Holly

Overview SE Colorado Farm for Sale

Barn Raising?

Lamar CO Land – Commercial and Residential

Lamar CO Land – Commercial and Residential

Commercial and Residential Vacant Lots for Sale

Multi-Use Vacant Lots in Lamar

1-Acre Lots of Lamar CO Land

Own Colorado Property in Beulah Valley

Own Colorado Property in Beulah Valley

Colorado Property in Beulah Valley

Historic Beulah Colorado

How Do I Buy a House?

How Do I Buy a House?

1. First Impressions Matter: Clean & Declutter

2. Fix What’s Broken: Address Deferred Maintenance

3. Boost Your Curb Appeal—Yes, Even for Rural Properties

4. Gather Key Documents That Build Buyer Trust

5. Highlight Potential Income

6. Market to the Right Audience with a Pro

7. Turn-Key Sells: Make It Easy for Buyers to Say Yes