Welcome to our Meet the Team Series, where we delve into the stories and expertise of our exceptional M4 Ranch Group team members.
In this Meet the Team spotlight, we interview Payton Craft to explore how growing up in the Mountain West shaped his approach to ranch brokerage, the ways his Marine Corps training translates to his leadership and adaptability in the field, and what he finds most rewarding about helping clients discover their dream ranch.
Payton shares his perspective on the evolving traditions of hunting, ranching, and land management, insights gained from years of tracking big game, and explains how he personally scouts each property to ensure clients receive accurate, firsthand guidance on wildlife and the land’s potential.
Read on to learn more…
Growing up in the Mountain West, what is the one aspect of the Ranching Lifestyle that has had the biggest impact on your career?
I’d say growing up out here really taught me the value of working hard and being a man of your word. I think those two things aren’t very common anymore and I think that matters, in particular when managing ranch deals.
Trust and Honesty
I’ve found that clients tend to trust you much more when you’re completely honest with them, this is especially important when showcasing a property. If there’s an issue or discrepancy, it’s far better to be upfront about it rather than trying to hide it.
For example; if a client asks what you don’t like about the property, being candid instead of sugarcoating your answer goes a long way in building trust. In my experience, this straightforward approach not only reassures clients but also fosters stronger, more genuine long-term relationships.
Your time in the Marine Corps has likely tested your limits, how do the skills that you learned there translate to your work as a Ranch Broker?
I believe there’s a strong parallel between the military and this industry: you should never get too comfortable in any situation. Whether you’re negotiating, solving problems on the fly, or making quick decisions while on the road, it’s important to stay focused and adapt.
This mindset not only helps you handle unexpected challenges but also ensures your clients feel confident in your abilities every step of the way.
What do you enjoy most about working with clients to help them find their Dream Ranch?
I truly enjoy helping people find their perfect piece of the American West, whether it’s a property for hunting, fishing, running cattle, or simply a peaceful retreat from the chaos of places like Denver or California… It’s rewarding to see everything come together.
“Helping clients connect with a place that fits their lifestyle and dreams, is by far the most fulfilling part of being a Ranch Broker”.
How do you see the traditions of hunting, ranching and land management evolving in today’s world and how do you stay ahead of those changes?
I’ve noticed that as more people get into hunting, wildlife management has really declined in my opinion! Many hunters today seem more focused on filling their tags, than on harvesting older, mature animals.
This shift is having a negative impact on the hunting industry, you just don’t see as many big deer or bulls anymore because people are taking these animals with good potential too early.
sustainable hunting for the future
With everything changing so quickly, it’s hard to know how we can get ahead of this problem and ensure sustainable hunting for the future. One to be answered in a future post perhaps!
You’ve spent countless hours tracking animals and big game, what insights have you gained about Land and wildlife that help you guide clients in selecting their perfect ranch?
Spending a lot of time hunting gives you a firsthand insight into how animals really use the land; where they feed, where they bed down, and their migration routes. You gain a deep understanding of what these animals need in terms of vegetation, water, and habitat.
Knowing these details, alongside their ‘hidey holes’, is incredibly valuable, especially when working with clients interested in buying a hunting ranch.
trophy animal’s
For example: you can point out, that a trophy animal was taken just a couple of miles away, which helps guide clients toward the best properties for their needs.
Do you base your assessment of the ranch’s hunting and wildlife on what the client tells you, or do you personally scout the ranch yourselves?
We have to take what the seller says with a grain of salt, since they naturally want to present their property in the best light.
It’s important we do our own research, so we don’t mislead any potential buyers. For the majority of our listings, we are all over them… spending several days thoroughly exploring the property, photographing the land, glassing, and scouting different areas.
reliable, first-hand information
This allows us to accurately identify where the wildlife, elk and bucks are and to provide clients with reliable, first-hand information.
The M4 Ranch Group Team
At M4 Ranch Group, we pride ourselves on being more than just brokers; we’re partners in your ranching journey.
Our team’s collective expertise, combined with Payton’s unique approach and experience, ensures that every client receives a personalized service tailored to their needs.
If you’re considering purchasing or selling a ranch, or simply want to explore the possibilities of ranch ownership, we invite you to reach out to Payton and M4 Ranch Group.
Let us help you find your perfect piece of property and turn your ranch dreams into reality.
View our Colorado Ranches For Sale, New Mexico Ranches For Sale and Wyoming Ranches For Sale
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Bio: Payton Craft
Payton Craft was born and raised in the rugged landscapes of the Mountain West. His upbringing was deeply rooted in the ranching lifestyle, taking on various responsibilities such as tending livestock, maintaining ranch equipment, land management, excavation work, and managing the daily operations of a ranch. These experiences helped shape him and taught him the value and rewards of hard work and resilience, and the deep connections to the land instilled in him a profound respect for nature, ranching, and the traditions of hunting.
His journey continued when he enlisted in the Marine Corps at 17, for 4 years he served our country as an infantryman in a CAAT platoon and a shooting instructor. This chapter of his life challenged and pushed him mentally and physically but furthered his strong leadership abilities and commitment to teamwork.
With Payton’s extensive background in ranching, land management, excavation, leadership roles, hunting, his strong understanding of and passion for nature and the land, he is an expert in his field. His unique blend of practical hands-on experience, industry knowledge, and deep appreciation for the rural lifestyle, has equipped him to navigate the complexities of ranch transactions effectively. Payton possesses insights and skills necessary of ranch brokers to identify opportunities and maximize ranch value for clients, always ensuring a smooth and successful process.
Through Payton’s life experiences, he had cultivated a strong work ethic, the deepest appreciation for the outdoors and an enduring sense of duty. He is committed to leveraging his expertise to help clients achieve their goals, while preserving the traditions and values that define the Western way of life.
A Sample of Ranches For Sale
Endless Creeks Ranch
$19,900,000
Endless Creeks Ranch is a remarkable Colorado Ranch For Sale, spanning 5,709.3± deeded acres. With an extensive water supply, diverse wildlife, and direct access to public lands, this property offers a rare opportunity for hunters and ranchers alike. Includes 1.25± miles of year-round Ault Creek and 2± miles of West Muddy Creek, with historic water rights of 12.25± c.f.s.
Red Mountain Ranch
$19,450,000
Red Mountain Ranch features two 7±-acre lakes, over 3 miles of improved trout streams, and Red Mountain Creek, which flows through the entire length of the property. This Colorado Ranch For Sale, also includes an Engelmann Spruce log cabin, a second log cabin for guests, and a barn with a caretaker’s apartment located above.
Arrowhead Ranch
$14,950,000
Arrowhead Ranch is an outdoorsman’s paradise with five magnificent Heritage Ranches that can be bought individually or as a whole. Superbly located in Central Colorado, this Colorado Ranch For Sale is ideal for ranchers, outdoor enthusiasts, anglers, and hunters alike. Nearly seven miles of trout stream meander through the idyllic grassland plateau with picturesque snow-capped peaks surrounding you.
