Moving from the city to a ranch in the west can be exciting an nerve wracking at the same time. Regardless of how you’re feeling, know that buying land on the prairie and moving westward will be a huge transition for anyone who hasn’t lived in that area before. Even farmers accustomed to open spaces are not 100% prepared for the life of a rancher. Ranch life is extremely rewarding, however, and ranch estates can actually be quite comfortable. Here are some things you should know when you’re preparing to purchase ranch real estate:
- Luxury ranch homes offer many comforts of suburban living with an unbeatable view. These homes are removed from the hustle and bustle of the city, and have a calming aura to them. The homes, however, can reflect any lifestyle that the owner wants. Just because you’re living in a minimalist’s dream location doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice your surround sound or pool. The homes for sale in the mountains and prairies are as diverse as the wildlife that surround them.
- Speaking of wildlife, you should be prepared to encounter some up close. Deer, elk, bobcats, coyotes, and wolves roam the rocky mountain region and can sometimes make their way onto privately owned land. This is a very real thing you will have to deal with if you decide to move west. However, hunting land is plentiful, so if you’re interested in catching your own game, the land and animals are readily available. Just be sure not to hunt any endangered or threatened species.
- Luxury ranch homes have many redeeming qualities, but the luxury of proximity isn’t always available. City centers are usually not too far away, but you will need to commute some distance for most groceries and work. Then again, this is often why people choose to downsize and move to remote areas. It promotes self-sustainability and hyper-local business. If you need additional resources you may be able to find them among local vendors — who may even be your neighbors.
- Know that you will more than likely become healthier. You will find a peace of mind in the great open skies and begin breathing in cleaner air. With local game and produce available, you’ll eat cleaner, and more than likely become more active with abundances of walking an hiking land available.
Western prairie or ranch living is a big change for most people, but it is ultimately very rewarding.
