Buying Land isn’t like buying a house or property, it’s an entirely different process with its own unique differentiators, challenges and nuances. There is a lot to consider, from water rights and zoning laws to conservation easements and access issues.
You could make a costly mistake if you don’t know what to look for?
That’s why working with an Accredited Land Consultant (ALC) really matters and makes a real difference when buying land.
If you’re serious about buying land, here’s ‘why an ALC is the best’ person to have in your corner (*although I am slightly biased… keep reading to learn more):
‘not keen on reading – listen here instead’
What is an ALC?
An Accredited Land Consultant (or shortened to ALC) is primarily a land specialist, not just an agent who occasionally works on land deals.. think of it like having a PHD in Land.
It’s important to note that an ALC isn’t just another real estate agent, for example: this designation is earned through extensive training, real-world experience, and a commitment to the highest professional standards.
It’s the mark of a true Land Expert; someone who doesn’t just Sell Land, but understands it inside and out!
How is it Awarded?
The ALC designation is awarded by the REALTORS Land Institute (or shortened to RLI) and must be earned through:
- Advanced education in land transactions, investment analysis, site selection, and land law
- A proven experience in closing significant land deals
- Alongside a strict code of ethics to ensure professionalism and integrity in every land transaction
Its significance in the Real Estate Industry
The ALC designation is the gold standard in Land Real Estate.
When you work with an ALC you can rest assured that you’re working with a professional, who has dedicated their professional career to understanding the intricacies and complexities of land transactions.
There is no better choice.
The Benefits of working with an ALC
Buying land is a significant investment; the right land broker can help you not only avoid costly mistakes, but also ensure you get the absolute most out of your land purchase.
To give you some more context, here’s how an ALC makes a real difference:
- Helping you to Avoid Expensive Mistakes
- An ALC knows what to look for and ensures no surprises, therefore helping you to avoid costly and expensive mistakes
- Land deals inevitably come with unique challenges, such as water rights, mineral rights, conservation easements, and zoning restrictions. These aren’t things you want to discover after you’ve closed the deal… so consult with an ALC
- An ALC knows what to look for and ensures no surprises, therefore helping you to avoid costly and expensive mistakes
- Giving you a Detailed Understanding of Land Values
- Unlike homes, land doesn’t have easy price comparisons? An ALC understands what makes Land valuable, how to assess its potential, and what constitutes a fair market price
- Using a true professional helps you to navigate the market with a value add mentality, getting you the absolute best out of the deal
- Unlike homes, land doesn’t have easy price comparisons? An ALC understands what makes Land valuable, how to assess its potential, and what constitutes a fair market price
- Having Industry Connections that Truly Matter and Add Value
- Land transactions often require direct input from: surveyors, attorneys, appraisers, and lenders that directly specialize in land deals
- An ALC already has an established network of trusted professionals, making the process much smoother
- Land transactions often require direct input from: surveyors, attorneys, appraisers, and lenders that directly specialize in land deals
- Handling the Finer Details, that Can Make or Break a Deal
- If your purchase involves a 1031 exchange, conservation easements, development potential, or hunting and recreational considerations, an ALC knows how to structure the deal to protect your interests
- An invaluable part of any land deal
- If your purchase involves a 1031 exchange, conservation easements, development potential, or hunting and recreational considerations, an ALC knows how to structure the deal to protect your interests
The Risks of Not Working with an ALC
Unfortunately, you are taking on unnecessary risks if you purchase land without the right expertise… and here is Why and What could go wrong:
- Overpaying for land without expert insight, can result in you paying too much?
- Zoning laws or land-use restrictions could prevent you from using the Land as you intended, ultimately resulting in you not using it as intended?
- Legal Issues, such as “problems with water rights, boundary disputes, or access restrictions”, could cause you costly complications?
- Hidden issues that reduce your land value, such as: flood zones, poor soil quality, or environmental restrictions… all of which can impact your land’s usability and long-term worth?
Land transactions require a level of knowledge that goes far beyond traditional real estate, using an ALC ensures you make an informed decision every step of the way.
Final Thoughts
Buying Land is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll ever make, and having the right expert by your side makes all the difference.
When you work with an Accredited Land Consultant (ALC), you are not just hiring an agent, you’re working with someone who lives and breathes land transactions. Someone who truly knows the questions to ask, the details to look for, and how to ensure you get the best possible outcome.
It makes all the difference in any land transaction.
Why Work with Dan Murphy & Seth Craft at M4 Ranch Group?
As I said, I am biased… and that’s because both Dan and I are Accredited Land Consultants, we bring years of hands-on experience, specialized knowledge, and a deep understanding of what makes Land a wise investment.
If you’re considering buying, selling, or investing in Land, let’s talk. We’ll make sure your deal is done right and with no surprises.
Success Stories:
At M4 Ranch Group, we take land seriously… We’ve been doing it for 40+ years!
- We recently helped a client secure a ranch with water rights, avoiding a legal battle that could have cost them thousands!
- We also guided a buyer looking for a hunting property, ensuring the Land had agricultural zoning, access, and long-term potential!
Author: Seth Craft
Seth grew up chasing elk and deer in the Cascades of Oregon. A hugely accomplished big game hunter, Seth has a passion for sheep, mule deer, and elk. A Colorado guide for Mossback Outfitters, he knows big deer and spends a lot of the fall searching for Monster Mule Deer.
In early 2000 he joined the Marine Corps at an early age of 17 and finished out the remainder of his time in a Close Quarter Battle team. Seth also worked as a Lineman for thirteen years, part of that time was spent doing storm work along the west coast.
He has become one of the top producers of premier properties in Colorado, Wyoming, and New Mexico. Recognized multiple times by the REALTORS Land Institute (RLI), the leading association for the land industry. Seth’s recognitions include being among the top 5% in production for land REALTORS across the entire country with an average of 50 premier ranch sales a year for the last 4 years. Most recently, Seth was recognized as a Top 20 National Producer, as well as, Region 6 (AZ, CO, NM, UT, WY) Broker of the Year in Recreational Land Sales. Seth serves on the Future Leaders Committee for RLI.
Expert Advice from M4 Ranch Group
At M4 Ranch Group, we specialize in helping buyers find and purchase ranches, recreational properties, and investment land across the Rocky Mountains.
View our Colorado Ranches For Sale, New Mexico Ranches For Sale and Wyoming Ranches For Sale
And Contact Us to Learn More
A Sample of Ranches For Sale
Stagecoach Crossing Ranch at Arrowhead Ranch
$7,500,000
Stagecoach Crossing Ranch stands as a testament to the timeless allure of ranching life. Spread across 2,047± acres of pristine land, this iconic property offers an unrivaled combination of natural beauty, abundant water features, and exceptional amenities.
Cucharas River Equestrian Ranch
$6,900,000
Cucharas River Equestrian Ranch is a stunning estate in La Veta, Colorado. Spanning over 302± acres, this property offers a blend of luxury living with exceptional equestrian facilities. The centerpiece is a Mediterranean-inspired main residence, over 4,800± square feet of living space.
Roaring Judy Ranch
$6,895,000
Roaring Judy Ranch is a 455±-acre legacy property offering rich pastures, valuable water rights, and prime wildlife habitats. This property is well-suited for ranching, hunting, and those who understand the significance of reliable water resources in Western Colorado.
