Dave wilcox Broker, COO

We find ourselves in the midst of a paradigm shift in the ranch market. For the last several years, we have been, without question, in a “seller’s market”. But today, many agents are seeing that the chance to find their buyers the “deal” that they have been waiting for is finally starting to present itself in ways that it hasn’t in quite some time. It’s true that ranches are still selling for record prices per acre in many regions of our state. But we are also seeing that market conditions, with economic uncertainty and steadily increasing interest rates, have left many listings on the market for longer than anticipated. This is allowing savvy agents on both sides of the transaction to put a deal together so both buyers and sellers feel good about the agreement made.

It’s always been said that “Texas chooses not to participate when the rest of the country is seeing a recession in the real estate market.” And to this, I would say, “Yes and no.” Yes, we are still in a healthy ranch market. Inventory is still low, demand is still steady, and prices are still relatively higher than in the years before.

But also, no. No, things aren’t near as crazy as they were in 2020–2021. We are not seeing the same buying frenzy as we did back then, so the overall number of transactions each month is lower. This isn’t a sign of recession or cause for concern, but it does show us that things are going to be tighter for a little while. This is really just a market adjustment, and many of us have been expecting it.

We were seeing all agents who were true pros and specializing in farm, ranch, and rural property sales have record years in the past few years. We were also seeing agents who didn’t have much of a clue on how to sell rural property fall out of bed and close a deal. The latter was not a good scenario for buyers or sellers. Experience matters. In a market like this, more than ever, experience matters.

Texas Ranch Sales has been around for over 20 years, and our experience is what keeps our clients coming back year after year. Our experience is what has our clients referring us to their friends and family to help them with their next farm, ranch, or rural property transaction. And our experience is why great agents from all over the state of Texas are joining this team. Experience matters.

If you’re a buyer or a seller and you’re looking for representation, I invite you to give me a call personally. I am happy to tell you about what we do and how our values and process might line up with what you are looking for. I’ll then make a personal introduction to one of our great broker associates in your area who is ready to help you in your quest to buy or sell.

If you’re a licensed real estate agent or broker looking for a new team, please also give me a call. I think you’ll be interested in what we have to offer. We have revamped several of our offerings in the last couple of months, and I think you’ll find that this could be the next place you want to hang your hat!

Finally, I want to take a moment to mention that our very good friend and teammate, Jeff Petska, passed away on March 5th after a long and courageous battle with cancer. No truer friend might ever be found than those of us who knew and loved Jeff. He was the original horse whisperer, and his impact on the performance horse world as well as his short career as an associate with Texas Ranch Sales will never be forgotten. Jeff was our “Rookie of the Year” in 2021 and was on his way to having a career in this game that would have really been something special. He will be sorely missed, but his legacy in his two areas of expertise will live on forever. Prayers to his wife Lisa, his kids, and everyone who knew and loved him and called him a friend.

God’s speed, Jeff!

Dave Wilcox Chief Operations Officer