By Carl Medearis
Land is more than just a commodity; it’s a connection to history, a canvas for creativity, and a source of endless potential. Over my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with some remarkable properties, transforming sprawling ranches steeped in history into modern living spaces that honor the past while embracing the needs of today. The journey of ranch development is one of vision, respect, and adaptability, and it’s a process I’ve come to deeply appreciate.
Understanding the Legacy of the Land
Every ranch I’ve worked with has a story. Whether it’s the Jones and Hank Smith Ranch, the historic Christmas Tree Farm, or the many other properties I’ve developed, these lands often carry decades, even centuries, of history. To me, the first step in any development project is understanding that legacy.
What did this land mean to the families who worked it? How did it contribute to the community? Answering these questions allows me to approach each project with respect for its past. Development isn’t about erasing history—it’s about building on it in a way that preserves its essence while making it accessible and functional for modern buyers.
Balancing Tradition and Innovation
Transforming a ranch into smaller, more manageable parcels—or “ranchettes”—requires a delicate balance of tradition and innovation. Buyers today are looking for something unique: the tranquility of rural living combined with modern conveniences. They want the open skies, the wildlife, and the sense of escape, but they also need electricity, roads, and the infrastructure to build a dream home.
When I work on a property, I look for ways to incorporate both. For example, on a 160-acre subdivision I recently completed near Franktown, Colorado, I ensured that every 40-acre parcel had breathtaking views of Pikes Peak and easy access via newly built county-grade roads. I brought in power from Mountain View Electric, ensuring future homeowners would have modern amenities without sacrificing the natural beauty that makes the area so appealing.
Creativity in Subdividing Large Properties
One of the most challenging—and rewarding—aspects of ranch development is creatively subdividing the land. This process isn’t just about dividing up acreage; it’s about creating value and opportunity for every level of buyer.
When I purchased the 7,810-acre Jones and Hank Smith Ranch, I knew its size and scale were both an opportunity and a challenge. Before the sale even closed, I surveyed the land into eight smaller ranches, ranging from 180 to 2,225 acres. This allowed me to conduct simultaneous closings, selling 80% of the land to recoup my initial investment while retaining the most scenic and valuable 1,500 acres.
By breaking the property into smaller parcels, I made it accessible to a wider range of buyers—families looking for a slice of rural paradise, investors seeking recreational land, and even those dreaming of running their own small ranch. This approach has become a hallmark of my work: turning large, complex properties into manageable and profitable ventures.
Preserving the Natural Beauty
One of the most rewarding parts of ranch development is finding ways to preserve the natural beauty of the land. Buyers are drawn to these properties for their wide-open spaces, rolling hills, and scenic vistas. It’s essential that development enhances, rather than diminishes, these qualities.
For instance, on the Christmas Tree Farm project, one of the parcels features a stunning fish pond and a six-car garage—perfect for someone who wants a mix of nature and utility. In the Jones and Hank Smith Ranch, I retained the most picturesque areas for future smaller ranchettes, ensuring that the land’s most striking features—its ponderosa pine trees and mountain views—remain intact and accessible.
The Future of Ranch Development
As the demand for rural properties continues to grow, I see ranch development as an opportunity to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity. Buyers want more than just land; they want a lifestyle that connects them to nature, history, and a sense of community.
The key to successful ranch development lies in adaptability. Each property is unique, and each buyer’s needs are different. By approaching each project with creativity, respect, and a willingness to innovate, developers can create spaces that honor the past while meeting the demands of the present.
Lessons Learned Along the Way
Over the years, ranch development has taught me countless lessons—not just about land, but about people. I’ve learned that buyers are drawn to authenticity. They want properties that feel genuine, with a story and a sense of character. I’ve also learned the importance of patience and persistence. Ranch development isn’t a quick process; it requires time, effort, and a commitment to doing things right.
Most importantly, I’ve learned that success in this field isn’t just about profit. It’s about creating something lasting, something meaningful. Whether it’s preserving a historic ranch or helping a family build their dream home, the work I do is about leaving a legacy—one that honors the land and the people who love it.
Closing Thoughts
Ranch development is more than a career for me; it’s a passion. It’s about taking something old and cherished and giving it new life. It’s about creating opportunities for others to experience the joy of land ownership and the beauty of rural living. And it’s about building something that lasts—developments that stand the test of time while preserving the history and character of the land.
As I look ahead to future projects, I remain committed to this vision. Because in the end, ranch development isn’t just about land. It’s about people, history, and the promise of what’s yet to come.