|
Where's the market today regarding Texas Ranch Land and Acreage, particularly the Texas Hill Country? Land purchases have definitely slowed somewhat, but selling prices are remaining more firm than would be expected with fewer buyers in the market. I believe this to be in large part to the knowledge, that in the past, land values have always increased in the longer term even though during some cycles values have paused or even decreased slightly. Additionally, unlike paper investments that have been known to literally evaporate overnight, land is substantial, it's something you can see, touch and know that it's still there.
In addition to potential for positive results from investing in Texas Hill Country Ranch Land, one of the better aspects of owning a ranch is the enjoyment one can have while holding such an investment compared to other investments. Those paper investments don't allow you to sit back and enjoy the tranquility of nature and the outdoors, and don't forget there's fishing, swimming, hunting, hiking, and many other activities that abound for the adventurous spirit.
You might ask, "What about the carrying costs of owning a ranch like property taxes, isn't it expensive?" Relative to carrying costs such as property taxes, in Texas, ranch land that has the agricultural exemption in place only pay a fraction of what property taxes would normally be without the exemption. Many ranches in Texas with a minimum of 20-25 acres currently have the agricultural exemption in place, and almost all of the larger ranches, from 100 acres to thousands of acres, have the exemption in place. We are now seeing more and more ranches that are becoming more diversified through wildlife exemptions instead of the customary agricultural exemption by providing habitat for certain species which can be a very rewarding experience.
What about other expenses of ranch ownership? Well, that depends on your budget and your plan for your ranch. There are several alternatives that ranch owners can decide from, and that's the fun part of it. Expenses incurred by improving the property through adding new improvements and renovating existing improvements can enhance the property's value and are more of an investment rather than expense and often are tax deductible.
What is a prime ranch? Well one example, many ranches have their own water features in the form of rivers, creeks, lakes and ponds, which can provide a wonderful picturesque setting and loads of entertainment for the ranch owner, family and friends. Many look at prime live water ranches as something akin to a high grade investment. Many live water ranches carry a premium of 25% to 50% or more in increased value just because of a beautiful water feature. These and other features can greatly enhance the value of your ranch investment.
There's a lot of concern and discussion lately on where's the best place to invest your money. With all the turmoil in the stock markets and conflicting opinions by the so called market experts, many investors have become uneasy and skeptical about where to put their money.
If you are one of the wary investors who has lost confidence in the stock markets, and are tired of the low yield now being offered on CD's, and are concerned about the long term prospects of a probable weakening dollar and inflation more than likely looming around the corner, Texas Real Estate may offer a viable alternative for you. Prime Texas Real Estate, particularly Ranch Land, has proven to be a stable investment over the years, and savvy investors have witnessed a strong land market for many years.
|
