Where do you live?
Boerne, Texas
Where did you grow up?
Corpus Christi, TX.
What drew you to ranch real estate?
As a TPWD Wildlife Biologist, I frequently had ranch brokers calling me for information on plants, wildlife, habitat, management, deer surveys, quail, etc., so I realized many Ranch Brokers didn’t know a lot about what they were selling. So, spending most of my time consulting with landowners and on their ranches anyway, it was only natural that the Ranch real estate business could use individuals with experience such as mine. And most ranches today are being purchased for recreational purposes, so it was a natural fit for me.
What are the three most important things to look for when looking for an agent to represent you?
Knowledge,
Experience,
Friendly Personality
What is the most profound lesson you have learned from spending time on ranches?
That all ranches are different, and the goals and objectives of each individual landowner varies. There is not a “one size fits all” approach to dealing with landowners. You must ask questions and match their desires and needs to their long-term goals.
If you could give in one sentence, a piece of advice about how to live life, what would that be?
Life is short, so trust God and live your life to the fullest, enjoying every moment of every day, cherishing the small things such as a sunrise or star-studded night sky.
Describe your perfect workday.
Being in the brush, in the field, talking with landowners or buyers about the land and wildlife, discussing what can be done to improve or manage it to the fullest.
What is your most memorable deal to date?
I’m working on it now but, they’re all memorable in their own way.
When looking for a brokerage, what drew you to West & Swope Ranches?
Mitch West. I’ve known him for a long time, and he is well respected, knowledgeable, honest, reverent, and overall, a good individual. Meeting Louie Swope just reaffirmed my choice. He is a young, energetic, hard worker that will take this firm to the top, and I’m enjoying the ride. I wouldn’t consider another firm.
What is your greatest accomplishment to date?
That’s a hard question. I’ve worked with hundreds of landowners over the past 40 years, including one that won the Statewide Land Stewardship Award. I’ve been fortunate to have published a couple natural history books. I think working with TPWD was the greatest job I could have been blessed with.
When you aren’t working your business, where can you be found?
In Ruidoso or Rockport, in the mountains or on the coast.
Who is someone who has had a profound impact in your life or in your business?
Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior and my beautiful wife, Lisa who has stood beside me during tough times and good.
What, or where, would be your dream ranch?
I used to think the south Texas brush country, but now I believe a small place in the Texas Hill Country with live water and lots of trees.
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