Idaho's Luxury Property Pilot

Executive Global: Being an outdoor enthusiast, hunter and an owner of horses and acreage yourself, what do you think it is that makes Idaho is such an appealing location for hunting, ranch and farmland estates? 

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Stacey Budell: Idaho is a premier destination for those who live for the land, offering a rare combination of expansive public access, robust agricultural protections, and diverse wildlife habitat. Many ranches border BLM or Public Lands which cover over 63% of our state. The geographic diversity supports a wide array of trophy species that include elk, deer, antelope, black bear, moose, cougar, and upland game birds as well. With over 100,000 horses and 25,000 farms and ranches, Idaho’s laws are built to support the equestrian lifestyle. The Right-to-Farm act and the Open-Range laws shield AG operations and allow livestock to roam. As a high desert and fertile soil with an abundance of water, many crops are produced and the seed production of the Treasure Valley is sold worldwide.
 

EG: For those looking to make the move, how would you compare and contrast the neighbourhoods of Boise, Caldwell, Nampa and Mountain Home? 

SB: Comparing these areas involves balancing proximity to Idaho’s urban core against affordability and lot size. Boise is the cultural and economic hub, characterised by high walkability and quick access to the foothills. Nampa and Caldwell offer more house for the money with a slower suburban-to-rural pace. Mountain Home is a fast growing area that stands apart as a more isolated military-centric community with significantly lower housing costs but a 45 minute commute to the Treasure Valley.
 

EG: What strategies would you say remain universal in the successful sale of multimillion dollar real estate? 

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SB: Successful multi-million dollar real estate sales rely on shifting from selling a ”structure” to selling an aspirational lifestyle. While technology evolves, certain core strategies remain universal because they address the psychology of high-net-worth (HNW) buyers who prioritise exclusivity, emotional connection, and convenience.

EG: You are an experienced backcountry and agricultural pilot, with a background in farming and ranching. What further advantages may this present to clients who wish to acquire ranches and farmland? 

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SB: Combining pilot expertise with a farming and ranching background offers a powerful dual-lens for evaluating agricultural real estate. My ability to provide aerial reconnaissance allows clients to see critical land features often hidden at ground level, while my operational knowledge ensures these observations are translated into practical management insights. Drainage and Dry spots in irrigated fields stand out, as well as the colour and condition of the crops, infrastructure integrity including fences, outbuildings irrigation systems, and runoff management. Aerial scouting can detect early signs of pest infestations, disease, or tillage problems that could impact future yields.
 

EG: In what ways would you say that your diverse background in banking and long-term escrow, helped prepare you to succeed in the world of real estate today? 

SB: It provides a significant competitive edge in today’s real estate market and allows me to navigate the financial complexities that often stall or derail traditional transactions. When traditional banking can be rigid, I can identify when a non-traditional deal structure-like an owner carry- is the best path forward, especially for unique properties or buyers that don’t fit standard bank profiles. I understand how interest rates, loan terms and down payments impact a seller’s future yield, enabling negotiations that maximise their net gain.

EG: Tell us about the opportunities for real estate developers and golf enthusiasts in The Treasure Valley? 

SB: The Treasure Valley is currently the ”sweet spot” for both real estate development and golf enthusiasts because of the regions rapid population growth and the resulting demand for high-end, lifestyle oriented communities.The Boise-Nampa-Caldwell corridor consistently ranked among the fastest-growing areas in the U.S., developers are pivoting toward amenity-rich residential projects. There is a growing market for master-planned communities that integrate private or semi-private courses with luxury housing. Developers are looking at areas in Eagle and South Meridian, where land availability allows for sprawling layouts. The valley offers a unique ”long season” compared to the rest of Idaho, with many courses staying playable well into the winter season.

EG: With decades of experience as a pilot and the knowledge to operate all kinds of equipment on a ranch to boot, what can wealthy clients expect when being represented by you? 

SB: When you are buying or selling high value ranch or estate property, you aren’t just looking for a ”salesperson”- you need a strategic partner who understands the asset from the soil up and the air down. As a pilot I can provide a literal bird’s-eye view of a property’s topography, boundaries and neighbouring land use. I can get us - or a potential buyer - on-site quickly, bypassing hours of driving to reach remote acreage. Because I know how to run the equipment, I can talk shop with ranch managers and evaluate the condition and efficiency of an irrigation system. With decades of market savvy, I’ve seen the market cycles, I know how to navigate complex contracts and water rights, ensuring your privacy and capital are protected during high-stakes negotiations. Whether we are discussing 1031-exchanges with your tax attorney or grazing rotations with a foreman, I bridge that gap seamlessly. You get a representative who understands both the investment portfolio and the mechanical reality of the property.   EG