As a real estate developer, I’ve had the privilege of working on some truly unique projects, but few have been as special as the redevelopment of the famous “Christmas Tree Farm” located just off Highway 83, south of Franktown, Colorado. The history and charm of this place are palpable, and I saw an opportunity not only to preserve its essence but also to turn it into something new and profitable while maintaining the beauty that has made it iconic for years.
Recently, I completed a subdivision project on this 160-acre parcel, a former cattle ranch and Christmas tree farm. It’s always a balance between honoring the legacy of a property and adapting it for modern needs. I believe we struck the perfect balance here, creating four stunning 40-acre parcels that showcase the very best of what Colorado has to offer.
A Developer’s Dream: Views and Location
When I first looked at this property, I knew it had incredible potential. The views alone were enough to convince me. Each of the four new parcels offers unobstructed, breathtaking vistas of Pikes Peak. There’s something magical about being able to look out over the landscape and see one of Colorado’s most famous landmarks in the distance.
But views weren’t the only thing that made this property special. Its location is key. With easy access to Colorado Springs, Castle Rock, and Denver, these properties are perfect for those looking to enjoy rural living without sacrificing the convenience of nearby urban centers. It’s rare to find land that provides such a perfect mix of seclusion, beauty, and accessibility, and that’s why I jumped at the chance to work on this project.
Turning Potential into Reality: Infrastructure and Improvements
One of the biggest challenges in land development is taking raw land and making it functional and desirable for buyers. That often means putting in the hard work behind the scenes—work that, in many cases, isn’t immediately visible but is absolutely essential. For this project, that meant improving infrastructure, particularly access to the parcels and bringing in utilities.
I’m proud to say that we installed a brand-new, county-grade road that touches each of the four parcels. Good road access is crucial, especially for properties like these, which are designed to be large, private estates. The road ensures that each parcel is accessible year-round and that future owners won’t have to worry about the logistics of getting to their homes, no matter the season.
In addition to the road, we brought in power from MountainView Electric, which was another important step in making these properties turn-key for new owners. I always emphasize the importance of making land not just beautiful but livable, and power access is a big part of that. By having electric power touch every parcel, I’ve ensured that these properties are ready for immediate development.
Unique Features: More Than Just Land
What sets these four parcels apart from other available ranch land in Colorado isn’t just the views or the location. Each of the properties has its own unique characteristics that make them truly special. For example, one of the parcels comes with a fish pond and a six-car garage—a feature that’s sure to appeal to a variety of buyers, whether they’re avid fishermen or need space for a car collection, workshop, or even a small business.
It’s these kinds of details that I love to incorporate into my projects. Real estate development isn’t just about dividing land into smaller pieces; it’s about making sure each parcel has something that sets it apart, something that will resonate with the right buyer. That’s where the art of development comes in—finding and enhancing those special qualities that make a piece of land more than just an investment, but a place where someone can envision building their dream home.
Ready for a New Chapter: Dream Home Properties
These four parcels are now ready to become someone’s dream home. I’ve always believed that land should inspire its owners, and with the Christmas Tree Farm project, that’s exactly what we’ve created. Whether it’s the expansive views of Pikes Peak, the quiet solitude of rural living, or the proximity to major cities, these parcels offer the best of Colorado.
What’s exciting for me as a developer is knowing that these properties aren’t just investments—they’re opportunities for new beginnings. Someone will build a home here, create memories, raise a family, and enjoy the beauty and tranquility of this land. That’s why I love what I do. It’s not just about profit; it’s about creating opportunities for others to realize their dreams.
Why This Project Stands Out
The Christmas Tree Farm project has been one of my most rewarding developments for a number of reasons. First, it allowed me to take a property with historical and sentimental value to the community and give it a new life. The property’s legacy will live on through the new homes and families that will one day occupy these parcels.
Second, this project highlights what I believe is the essence of good land development: balancing the natural beauty of the land with the practical needs of modern living. By improving the infrastructure, bringing in power, and ensuring access, I’ve turned a piece of land into a series of dream properties, while still preserving the charm and uniqueness that made the Christmas Tree Farm special in the first place.
Looking Forward
As this project wraps up and the parcels go on the market, I’m excited to see who will call this land home. Each of the four ranchettes offers something different, and I have no doubt that the right buyers will see the potential just as I did. I’ll continue to look for opportunities like this—where I can blend my passion for real estate with a respect for the land and its history.
For now, though, I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished with the Christmas Tree Farm project, and I can’t wait to see the next chapter unfold for these beautiful properties.