Building Trust in Land & Legacy: Heck + HitchPin

In this episode, HitchPin’s Jess Smith sits down with Brian Pine from Heck, based in Lawrence, KS, to talk about his deep roots in farming, the transition into agricultural real estate, and the unique story behind the Black Hat Ranch listing. Together, they cover themes of family legacy, land as both an emotional and financial asset and how technology is reshaping agriculture and real estate.

02:19 – Staying Connected to Agriculture Brian explains how family farming ties and his passion for helping farmers keep him connected to the ag community.

04:03 – A Career Beyond Farming After facing challenges leaving farming, Brian became a consultant, supporting producers with budgets, acquisitions and financial planning—later blending that expertise with real estate.

06:01 – Why Real Estate? Brian discusses his calling to real estate as a way to serve farm families, help them navigate emotional land transitions and bring his experience to guide generational decisions.

09:51 – Generational Land & Urban Pressure Jess and Brian reflect on the emotional weight of selling multi-generational farmland, especially with the pressures of urban expansion and land subdivision.

13:21 – Discovering HitchPin Brian recalls hearing HitchPin’s founder, Trevor, speak in 2019 and how shared values, tech innovation and Kansas roots inspired a partnership.

17:39 – The Role of Digital Tools in Ag Brian highlights how tools like HitchPin speed up transactions, provide security, and connect producers with services and equipment, creating opportunities for all sizes of ag businesses.

22:32 – The Black Hat Ranch Story Brian gives a detailed overview of Black Hat Ranch in Douglas County—363 contiguous acres with dramatic elevation, Clinton Lake views, wildlife corridors and access to 75 miles of horse trails.

26:28 – Who is the Ideal Buyer? Potential buyers include hunters, ranchers, horse enthusiasts, outfitters and those seeking personal retreats—with strong interest given its proximity to Lawrence, Topeka, and Kansas City.

32:38 – The First Auction for Heck Real Estate Brian shares excitement about hosting Heck’s first independent auction (partnered with Gavel Roads), calling it a “drinking from the firehose” learning experience but a powerful milestone.

37:48 – Real Estate Trends in Agriculture Discussion of post-COVID demand for rural living, investor interest in ag land and the challenges younger farmers face breaking into the market.

44:39 – Advice for Land Buyers Brian advises prospective buyers to set clear priorities, establish budgets early and choose an agent they can truly trust when navigating the complexities of rural real estate.

Featured Listing: Black Hat Ranch

• Location: Douglas County, KS
• Size: 363 contiguous acres
• Highlights: Clinton Lake views, horse trail access, hunting and ranching potential
• Auction Date: October 7 at 11 AM (hybrid: online + in-person at Venue 1235, Lawrence, KS)
• LINK: https://www.hitchpin.com/for-sale/product/real-estate/kansas/12853