Ronnie Hurst has opened Antler Creek Realty at 1850 E. Main St. in Cortez.

A Southwest Colorado native, Hurst has lived here all his life. He said he specializes in mountain and hunting properties, but can help people with any type of home.

“I like helping people get into their houses,” he said.

Hurst has been a real estate agent for about 2½ years, and previously worked for Century 21 West Slope Realty. He decided to go out on his own, he said. He also provides tax help and contractor services.

Housing inventory is down in Southwest Colorado, so prices are going up, Hurst said. He anticipates that more people will start buying vacant land and building homes themselves, he said.

He said he has recently helped lots of home buyers from outside the area, especially from Florida.

Hurst said he hears frequent stories from people who had trouble contacting area real estate agents. He promises an emphasis on customer service for his business.

“I like to return phone calls,” he said.

jacobk@the-journal.com