OLD TOBACCO FARM
Albuquerque, New Mexico
$10,990,000 | 158± Acres
Tobacco Farm | Albuquerque, New Mexico
Old
INTRODUCTION
The 158±-acre Old Tobacco Farm is located in the very northern part of Albuquerque’s Valley Farms area. A multi-year planning and re-zoning process has resulted in a Bernalillo County-approved Sector Plan for the property that allows for 450 residential housing units. Per the Sector Plan, 23± acres must be donated to the County for open space.
The property is one of three things depending on the buyer’s wants and needs; a ready-to-go residential development project, a land bank opportunity, or an ongoing hay farm operation. The location is in the path of development and urbanization as the city of Albuquerque’s density increases in this direction. The County of Bernalillo has heartily endorsed a residential project in this location. Located off Coors Blvd near the intersection with Rio Bravo, adjacent to a new Walmart Supercenter, theatre complex, and senior living facility, the property is unique in its large size and location.
The Old Tobacco Farm was once a producing tobacco farm for the smokeless tobacco industry. There were several other agricultural incarnations of the farm before it became what it is today, a highly productive alfalfa hay farm in the heart of the city with an approved Bernalillo County Sector Plan for residential development.
This area has a long and storied history because of its proximity to the Rio Grande River. The farm has been in the same family for generations, and this is the first time it has been offered for sale in this configuration. For the right buyer, this property provides the opportunity to develop a significant residential housing project asap or hold the property for future appreciation.
This property may be purchased in several different configurations.
• A separate designated 40± acre parcel
• The entire parcel west of the Arenal with county-approved development plan
• Purchase 23± acres east of the Arenal separately
QUICK FACTS
• 158± acres – 23 acres committed for open space if developed
• Property has a Bernalillo approved sector plan for residential development
• 450 residential housing units approved
• First time listed for sale
• Paved dedicated access off major roads
• Utilities to the property
• Adjacent to Walmart Supercenter, Hobby Lobby, & other stores
• Albuquerque proclaimed to have ideal weather, temperate with mild winters
• Short drive to Amazon Fulfillment Centers & other major employers
• 10 minute drive to the ABQ Sunport Airport
• Sector plan available for qualified buyers
ACREAGE
The Old Tobacco Farm is a lush 158± acre alfalfa farm surrounded by urban and commercial density in the Valley Farms area of Albuquerque. If the buyer chooses to implement the Sector Plan and build a residential development, 23± acres must be donated to the county as open space. The alfalfa fields are laser leveled for perfect water distribution and easy development.
SCENIC VISTAS
Even though the farm is located inside the city, there are beautiful views of the Sandia Mountains in the distance.
AREA HISTORY
Albuquerque, New Mexico, was founded in 1706 as a Spanish colonial outpost along the Camino Real, the main trade route between Mexico City and Santa Fe. The area was settled by Native American communities long before Spanish explorers arrived.
Throughout its early history, Albuquerque experienced the influence of Spanish and Mexican cultures, evident in its architecture, traditions, and culinary offerings. The region was also significantly impacted by the arrival of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railways in 1880, which further facilitated trade and transportation in the area. The Native American influence around Albuquerque, New Mexico, is deeply rooted in the region’s history. Before the arrival of European settlers, the area was inhabited by various Native American communities for thousands of years. Several tribes, including the Pueblo, Navajo, Apache, and Comanche, have historical ties to the region.
The most significant Native American group in the area is the Pueblo people. The Pueblos are known for their distinct architectural style, building multi-story adobe structures and living in close-knit communities. Some of the Pueblo communities near Albuquerque include the Sandia Pueblo, Isleta Pueblo, Santa Ana Pueblo, and the Kewa (formerly Santo Domingo) Pueblo. Each Pueblo has its language, traditions, and customs, contributing to the rich cultural diversity of the region.
Albuquerque post office circa 1910-1920
Albuquerque plaza circa 1908
Additionally, the Navajo Nation, the largest Native American tribe in the United States, also has historical connections to the Albuquerque area. The Navajo people have a significant presence in New Mexico and neighboring states, contributing to the region’s cultural tapestry.
Throughout Albuquerque’s history, the Native American influence has been visible in various aspects of life, including art, music, cuisine, and ceremonies. Native American art, particularly traditional pottery, and jewelry, is highly regarded and widely celebrated in the region.
The city of Albuquerque hosts numerous events and gatherings that showcase Native American cultures, such as the Gathering of Nations Powwow, one of the largest powwows in North America, attracting indigenous dancers, singers, and artisans from across the continent.
Old town Albuquerque photo taken by Joe Mabel
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES
Albuquerque offers a diverse array of attractions and activities that cater to various interests. Here are some of the popular things to see and do in and around Albuquerque:
• Historic Old Town: Explore the heart of Albuquerque’s history in Old Town, where you’ll find adobe buildings, charming shops, art galleries, and restaurants. The area is rich in culture and features San Felipe de Neri Church, one of the oldest surviving buildings in the city.
• Albuquerque BioPark: This family-friendly destination consists of four components: the Albuquerque Aquarium, the Rio Grande Botanic Garden, the Albuquerque Zoo, and Tingley Beach. Enjoy a day learning about aquatic life, exploring beautiful gardens, observing exotic animals, and fishing at the beach.
• Sandia Peak Tramway: Take a scenic ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway, one of the world’s longest aerial tramways. It offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding Sandia Mountains.
• Petroglyph National Monument: This park showcases ancient rock art made by Native American and Spanish settlers. Hike along the volcanic escarpment and discover petroglyphs that provide insight into the area’s ancient cultures.
• Indian Pueblo Cultural Center: Learn about the rich heritage and traditions of New Mexico’s Pueblo tribes through exhibits, cultural performances, and workshops at this informative cultural center.
• New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science: Explore fascinating exhibits about dinosaurs, fossils, space exploration, and the natural history of the Southwest.
• Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta: If you’re visiting in early October, don’t miss the worldrenowned Balloon Fiesta, where hundreds of hot air balloons take to the skies in a vibrant spectacle.
• Breaking Bad Filming Locations: For fans of the TV show “Breaking Bad,” take a self-guided tour to see various filming locations scattered throughout the city.
• Albuquerque Isotopes Baseball: Catch a baseball game at Isotopes Park, the home stadium of the Albuquerque Isotopes, a Minor League Baseball team.
• Sandia Peak Ski & Tramway: During the winter months, enjoy skiing and snowboarding at Sandia Peak Ski Area, a short drive from Albuquerque.
• Explora Science Center and Children’s Museum: A great place for families, this interactive museum offers hands-on exhibits that encourage learning through play and exploration.
• Albuquerque Rail Yards: Visit the historic Albuquerque Rail Yards, a former bustling railroad facility now used for events, markets, and festivals.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, culture, or adventure, you’ll find something to enjoy in this vibrant city.
INCOME OPPORTUNITY
The property has undergone a long process of being re-zoned and platted as a high-density 450-unit residential development. This is a very valuable attribute that means the time to begin developing the property is cut by years. In current form, the Old Tobacco Farm is currently a profitable alfalfa farm. It is a highly professional operation that a new owner could continue forward if he wanted to land bank the property.
CLIMATE
Climate data courtesy of http://www.city-data.com/city/Albuquerque-New-Mexico.html
The most pleasant months of the year for Albuquerque are May, September, and April. In Albuquerque, there are four comfortable months with high temperatures in the range of 70-85°. July is the hottest month for Albuquerque, with an average high temperature of 91.8°, which ranks it as warmer than most places in New Mexico. December is the snowiest month in Albuquerque, with 3.2 inches of snow, and six months of the year have significant snowfall. Days with noticeable humidity are rare throughout the year.
WATER SOURCES | WATER RIGHTS
There are water rights associated with the property that allow for the irrigation of the hay fields. It is recommended that the buyer investigate these water rights to their satisfaction and understanding.
CONSERVATION | STEWARDSHIP
Each of us at Fay Ranches loves the land and wants to see it remain a productive agricultural ground and a quality fish and wildlife habitat. Through promoting thoughtful land stewardship, Fay Ranches has guided owners toward a legacy of conserving wide-open spaces, enhancing and creating fisheries and wildlife habitats, and implementing sustainable agricultural operations. Fay Ranches is proud to say that since our company began in 1992, our clients’ conservation ethics and land-use practices have significantly enhanced our work landscape.
LOCATION
The Old Tobacco Farm is located in the Valley Farms area of Albuquerque, south of the city center, south of I-40, and West of I-25 near the intersection of two major thoroughfares, Coors Boulevard and Rio Bravo. Santa Fe, New Mexico, is an hour’s drive to the north via I-25.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
20 Old Tobacco Farm | Albuquerque, New Mexico
GETTING THERE
In Albuquerque, from the intersection of Rio Bravo and Coors Boulevard, go south on Coors to Las Estancias Drive SW, turn east, and proceed a couple of hundred yards to the property gate.
AIRPORT SERVICES
The Albuquerque International Sunport, commonly known as the Albuquerque Airport, is the primary airport serving the city of Albuquerque and the surrounding region. It is located approximately three miles southeast of downtown Albuquerque, making it easily accessible to both residents and visitors. The airport serves as a hub for Southwest Airlines and is a focus city for Allegiant Air. Additionally, several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and others, operate regular flights to and from Albuquerque.
www.fayranches.com | (800) 238.8616 | info@fayranches.com
SUMMARY
The Old Tobacco Farm is a beautiful green island of alfalfa hays fields in the center of an urban landscape that, by the way, has a very valuable sector plan approved by the Bernalillo Planning Department. The County has approved and adopted a plan for a 450-residential housing unit development. Located in Albuquerque, the property enjoys the benefits of a high desert climate more seasonal than Phoenix without the extremely high temps Phoenix experiences. Outdoor living and activities are a way of life in the area. Art and history are richly woven into the fabric of the city, and the historic city of Santa Fe is an hour away. The Sandia Mountains are only minutes away. Often the exercise in real estate investment becomes trying to project the path of development and population growth and buy ahead of the masses. The Old Tobacco Farm already has an approved development plan!
10,990,000
Cash, Conventional Financing, 1031 Tax Exchange
Please contact Jim Vidamour ALC at (719) 890-4590 | jvidamour@fayranches.com . This is an exclusive listing. An agent from Fay Ranches must be present at all showings, unless otherwise noted or other arrangements are made. To view other properties, fly fishing properties, and sporting ranches that we have listed, please visit our web page at www.fayranches.com .
Offer is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale, change or withdrawal without notice, and approval of purchase by owner. Information regarding land classification, carrying capacities, maps, etc., is intended only as a general guideline and has been provided by the owners and other sources deemed reliable, but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Prospective purchasers are encouraged to research the information to their own satisfaction.
