Value of Ranch Properties near the Arkansas River
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.
The latest from Cruikshank Realty
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 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 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.
