“Well, I’m just a Ranchette buyer!” some might reply. My response is that not all Ranchettes are the same! Country living is hard work. As a buyer, you really have to take a step back and evaluate what you’re planning to do on your new property.

Maybe you can see yourself and your goals in one (or more!) of these “types” of buyers I’ve seen in my real estate experience!

1. The “Get Me Out Of Town” Buyer

   You know who you are… you don’t consider yourself the “country bumpkin,” but you long for the space the country offers. You dream about a big sprawling house with a huge yard, swimming pool, and shop to store your toys.

   Typically, you’re looking for a custom home, or maybe even an acre or two to build your own dream house. You really want the same thing you have in town - but without the neighbors.

   These properties tend to be priced on the higher end of the Ranchette market. They can also tend to sit on the market a little longer, because not everyone has the means to swing the price and financing. Location is a must for you!

2. The “Hobby Farmer”

   You’d like a nice home with an acre or two to raise a few goats, keep some chickens, tend a sizable garden, and house your family’s 4-H projects. You’re willing to do a little TLC to the house but not a total gut.

   A barn or shop would be fantastic! You’d love a place to have a party, store your hay, or park your equipment. It needs to be manageable because you’re not a full-time farmer, yet you want your kids to grow up in the country and have the experience of a “farm”.

   Fences and corrals are important and it would be nice to have infrastructure already in place, while providing for some small improvements to make it your own.

   These properties will be mid- range, price-wise. They also sell fast, but residential financing will work for your purchase. You won’t be the only one interested in this kind of property, but we can totally make your dreams a reality!

3. The “Fixer” Buyer

   You’re a hobby farmer, but are willing to take on a project (and a big one, if need be!). You find yourself looking at the properties that everyone else is scared away from!

   Financing on Fixers can be a little more challenging. I can help to find out whether an FHA 203(k), construction loan, or cash will get you to the end. You’ll have to make your offer accordingly so that you leave enough in your budget to get everything - especially the house - where it needs to be.

   These deals can be challenging, but an experienced Ranchette realtor is what you need to help you close. You’ll be the talk of the neighborhood once you do.

4. The “Horse Owner” Ranchette Buyer

   We horse people know that working with horses is not just a hobby (and an expensive one at that!), but a passion. Facilities are important when it comes to horses. A place to ride is a must, whether it is a fully-functioning arena or just a large area.

   Layout is key. There must be stalls, and a place to store hay and multiple trailers. Pasture is ideal so your horses can graze and you can fit some cows to rope, too.

   The house is important, but not a priority. Typically, these buyers are willing to go a little out of their way location-wise to get exactly what they need. These properties vary in price depending on the facilities you’re looking for and they spend a little more time on the market, since they take a specialized buyer.

5. The “Professional Farmer or Rancher”

   You’re looking for more than 10 acres and a place where you can establish your farming business. The property could vary from open ground to grow corn or alfalfa - to fenced in pasture to raise beef - to a place to plant an orchard. The house is an added bonus, but not crucial.

   This buyer’s struggle is with making the numbers work. Land in the Central Valley is pricey, and if you are looking to run a business, things need to pencil out at the end of the year. You’re typically a patient buyer looking for a deal. You usually have the capital or access to money to plant your crop or grow your operation. You’ll be willing to relocate off the beaten path, so long as it fits your needs. In my experience, you’re the least emotionally-motivated buyer. It's all about making the best deal.

So, you can see, there’s a lot more to it than being “just a Ranchette buyer.” If you sit down and really decide what your goals are before you start looking, the process will be a whole lot easier. It will help shape your expectations and really help you to make the right decision!

-Nat