Tell us about the incredible people you worked with at the Monastery.
In our line of work, we strive to partner with true stewards of the land—those who reflect our own beliefs in stewardship, integrity, and respect for the landscapes entrusted to us. When we began working with the Trappist order at St. Benedict’s Monastery, we quickly realized that these men embodied the very principles we hold dear. Their devotion to the land, which they protected for nearly 70 years, mirrored the thoughtful, long-term stewardship we champion at MRG. Their humility and sincerity guided our approach and made the process profoundly meaningful.
What did it take to get this transaction across the finish line?
Patience, professionalism, and unwavering integrity were essential to bringing this transaction across the finish line. Because we were working with ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWI) and their advisory teams, we had to be exceptionally precise, proactive, and aligned internally. Our collaboration with skilled legal counsel and a trusted local broker, Michael Latousek, ensured that both the seller and buyer received the high level of service and clarity we promise in every engagement. As with many legacy properties and ranches for sale, success required balancing discretion, expertise, and a deep respect for the land and its history.
What was particularly unique about this transaction?
This listing stood apart for many reasons, some obvious, others more subtle, and it called upon the full breadth of our values and expertise.
- A multi-layered decision-making process: Working with an entity that required multiple levels of approval demanded patience, clear communication, and respect for the Order’s internal structure. There were advisory committees involved in the US and in the Vatican, and we also had to navigate the impacts of Canon Law on the entire process.
- A commitment to privacy: Protecting our clients—both sellers and prospective buyers—from press, speculation, and neighborhood attention was essential. Discretion is a cornerstone of our client service model, and this transaction required it at the highest level.
- Complex zoning and land-use considerations: Understanding a very complex and sophisticated county land-use code that provided no certainty about what could be developed and conveying it responsibly to buyers upheld our value of integrity. While some viewed the property as a potential development opportunity, we ensured that anyone engaging with the listing fully understood the limitations of working in Pitkin County and with the local caucus group.
- The people: Perhaps most uniquely, working alongside the monks of the Monastery was deeply rewarding. Despite living amidst one of the wealthiest valleys in the world, they remained humble, contemplative, and profoundly connected to the land. Their stewardship—rooted in prayer, simplicity, and care—made them among the finest land stewards we have ever worked with.
What Level of Commitment was Required by MRG to begin marketing the property?
We worked with the Monastery for over one year before the property was formally listed. This time allowed us to honor our commitment to diligence, accuracy, and respect for the land. Values in the valley are exceptionally high, but we knew we couldn’t apply a surface-level comparable sales approach. Instead, we conducted an exhaustive study of the property—its restrictions, opportunities, history, and physical attributes—to develop a thoughtful valuation grounded in our knowledge of the product.
Just as importantly, we invested in building a relationship with the monks who lived and worked there. Their insights into the land’s use, spiritual importance, and daily rhythms helped us understand the property more deeply, reflecting our belief that great ranch brokerage begins with listening and learning.
How will the monks use the proceeds, and where will they go?
All of the monks are part of the Order of Cistercians of Strict Observance, and many will join the abbey in Spencer, Massachusetts. The proceeds of the sale will benefit the Order and help maintain the 150 OSCO monasteries worldwide.