There are many different types of properties available within Southwest Colorado, including residential land, mountain/recreation parcels, farm and ranch, mining claims, and special agricultural opportunities depending on your needs, goals and lifestyle.
Vacant Land
Ranging from just a fraction of an acre to many hundred acres, vacant land can provide a blank canvas on which the owner can create the setting they wish. In Southwest Colorado, these large acre parcels are primarily found to the east, south, and west of Durango. Some of these border the Animas River, Pine River, or Florida River adding to the allure of Colorado properties. It’s imperative to research the property to ensure the conceptual plan will work with any covenants or restrictions on the land (if applicable) and with the appropriate government entities. Investigating the utility infrastructure such as septic, well, electricity, gas, water rights, etc., is also prudent.
Farm & Ranch
Properties that are specifically set up for farm and ranch purposes usually have fenced and cross fenced pasture areas, barns, stables, hay barns, and other outbuildings. Some farm and ranch properties have high end homes accompanying the western lifestyle while others have modest country homes. Other uses included grazing, hunting, outfitting, and the like.
Many of these large acreage ranches do not belong within an HOA or have covenants, making the land customizable for the owner’s needs. This aids with the opportunities for housing animals like livestock (horse, cows, sheep, pigs, goats, chickens, etc.) as well as common household pets such as dogs, cats, hamsters, fish, and reptiles.
Agricultural Properties
Agriculture is defined as “the science or practice of farming, including cultivation of the soil for the growing of crops and the rearing of animals to provide food, wool, and other products” which are prevalent in Southwest Colorado. There are many established local farms such as James Ranch, Fox Fire Farms, Turtle Lake Refuge, and Field to Plate Produce to name a few. You can experience some of their amazing products at the Durango Farmers Market.
Agricultural properties may be eligible for or already include conservation easements. Applying for this easement, typically for wildlife habitat, assures that a dedicated portion of land will not be built on or developed; this can offer significant property tax benefits. When the property is sold, the easement remains in place, but the tax benefit doesn’t roll over to the next owner.
Irrigation
Vacant land, farm & ranch, and agricultural properties may be accompanied with water benefits including rivers, streams, ponds, irrigation ditches, and/or direct access to similar features. Depending on the property, irrigation rights may be included or available from the pond, river, or other water source. Irrigation can be a game changer if the land is used for agriculture, livestock, hobby farms, and even your own personal gardening and landscaping.
Major La Plata County irrigation districts include the Animas Consolidated Ditch, Florida Consolidated Ditch, and the Pioneer Ditch Company. Knowing if the irrigation rights are transferred by deed, certificate (share), or maintained through your homeowners association, then making sure they are transferred correctly, is a critical part of buying irrigated property. Having an experienced Realtor on your side to navigate this process is hugely beneficial.
No matter the type of land, making sure your property insurance is adequate and that wildfire safety is kept in mind throughout the year will help protect your investment. Max & Deven are seasoned real estate professionals serving Southwest Colorado and have insightful knowledge on all types of properties. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions about rural properties in Durango or surrounding areas.
