The distribution of a farm inheritance is rarely a straightforward process. Unlike liquid assets or divisible investments, a farm carries deep emotional ties, decades of shared family history, and,...
Understanding the true value of agricultural property is a foundation for financial stability, informed decision-making, and effective legacy planning. Whether you’re thinking about selling,...
As the planting season approaches, farmers across the Midwest are gearing up for another year of hard work and high hopes. However, the challenges of pest management and disease management can...
Selling farmland is a complex process that requires thorough planning, strategic decision-making, and a good understanding of various sales methods. Every characteristic of the land, from soil...
A farm where the soil is rich and fertile, water resources are used efficiently, and a diverse ecosystem thrives—this is an achievable vision with the right sustainable practices. For farm...
For farmers, managing a farm is not just about planting seeds and harvesting crops—it’s also about navigating unpredictable markets. Prices for agricultural products like corn, wheat, or...
Imagine a farm where the soil is rich and dark, teeming with life, and the crops are robust and thriving. This isn't just a dream; it's a reality that can be achieved through a deep understanding of...
Farming is a noble, yet unpredictable profession. Farmers face relentless challenges, from weather extremes to fluctuating markets, that can threaten both yield and income. It’s no wonder crop...
Taking over a family farm can feel overwhelming, especially if agriculture isn't your background. The land may come with countless memories of family gatherings and generations of hard work, but as...
Navigating zoning laws and regulations can feel like solving a complex puzzle, especially for farm owners and real estate developers. Zoning directly impacts how landowners use, develop, and maintain...
Efficient fertilizer management is a necessity for farm owners, and it’s an attainable goal. When practiced correctly, applying fertilizer can significantly boost crop yield while using...
Navigating the farmland leasing landscape can be both rewarding and challenging for landowners. Understanding the intricacies of lease agreements is crucial for establishing a successful and mutually...
Technology has revolutionized nearly every industry, and commercial real estate (CRE) is no exception. Technology is transforming how property owners, managers, and investors approach their business,...
The changes in the agricultural industry are affecting farmland prices. For farmers looking to expand their holdings or investors seeking lucrative opportunities, it’s important to know what...
Buying farmland is a significant investment. Auctions offer a unique opportunity to acquire property that might otherwise be out of reach, but entering an auction without adequate knowledge can lead...
In the delicate balance of agriculture and land use, conservation efforts have become more crucial than ever. This necessity has brought about a growing partnership between farm owners and land...
Soil is the foundation of every successful farm, and understanding its intricacies is crucial for sustainable agriculture. In today's farming landscape, responsible soil stewardship is not just a...
Efficient water use in agriculture is critical, but uncovering and utilizing the right techniques isn’t always easy. This blog post explores innovative irrigation methods for efficient water...
Investing in commercial property can be lucrative, often offering more substantial returns than residential properties. However, you must approach this investment with careful consideration and a...
Running a successful swine facility is a multifaceted challenge that requires a blend of strategic planning, efficient design, and robust management practices. Whether you are a seasoned farmer or a...
With agriculture being a critical component of the global economy, owning farmland promises potential financial gains and offers a chance to contribute to food security.
Therefore, farmland is a...
Land auctions offer a dynamic platform where parcels of land can change hands quickly, often at competitive prices.With other competitors eyeing the potential of agricultural investments and real...
Climate change is no longer a distant threat; it is a current reality that impacts every aspect of our lives. The stakes are particularly high for farm owners, as the effects of climate change...
Are you considering selling farmland but need clarity about the process and strategies for success? This is the guide for you. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and insights...
Sustainability is a critical component of commercial real estate. As the world grapples with the growing importance of sustainable practices, there is an urgent need to rethink how people build and...
Finding the perfect farmland is crucial, whether you want to start a small organic farm or invest in a piece of property with long-term potential. However, this purchase is not one you should rush....
Are you a farmland owner looking for ways to optimize your land's productivity and generate a steady income? Consider partnering with a tenant farmer. Tenant farming offers numerous advantages,...
If you’re a farmer or real estate investor, you know that land is one of the most valuable assets you can own. You can browse the properties for sale on the real estate market or look through...
Owning a farm is not just a livelihood; it’s a legacy passed down through generations, a connection to the land, and a dedication to feeding communities.
However, the complexities that come...
For farmers and landowners, selling their farmland is a major financial decision that requires careful consideration. Farmers can make the most of their money and make sure the deal is successful if...
In the past, farming was often seen as a labor-intensive industry that relied heavily on manual labor and traditional methods. However, technology has revolutionized many aspects of our lives, and...
The commercial real estate landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by technological advancements, innovative business models, and sustainable practices. Understanding these trends is crucial for...
Iowa is critical to the agriculture industry. It’s a state where rich soil and innovative farming practices come together to create a powerhouse of productivity. For people considering buying...
For farmers, heavy rain and flooding can mean lost crops, damaged equipment, and financial ruin. Unfortunately, many farmers in our service area, especially western Iowa, have experienced flooding...
Embarking on the journey of becoming a swine farmer can be both exhilarating and daunting. A key decision that will significantly impact your success is the choice of the swine facility where you...
Location is everything in the restaurant industry. It can significantly affect foot traffic, the customer experience, and profitability. While many restaurateurs opt to lease existing spaces due to...
Purchasing a piece of land is the first step in a rewarding journey that can lead to building your dream home or starting a farm. It’s a complex process that can be daunting to newcomers, but...
As the world’s population continues to grow, so does the demand for food. Agriculture is the largest water user in many regions, and with climate change causing water scarcity, it’s more...
Knowing what to expect during a real estate auction process will help bidders and sellers alike navigate these events smoothly. You must remember many details if you want to enjoy a successful...
The decision to invest in undeveloped land presents an exciting opportunity but requires careful consideration due to its inherent complexities. This guide will provide a straightforward analysis of...
Nestled in the heart of North America, the Midwest has long been the epicenter of the country’s agriculture, its landscape dotted with endless fields that ripple and sway with the winds of...
Are you a farmland owner looking for a tenant farmer to operate your land? If so, you know it's important to find the right person for the job. A good tenant farmer can make all the difference in the...
Effective farm management is the backbone of a successful agricultural operation. It marries the science of farming with the art of running a business.
It’s important to stay updated on the...
From general administrative duties to the intricate terrains of crop planning and livestock welfare, the manager is the key to a farm’s agronomic accomplishments. That said, what’s the...
The process of bidding for land at auction can be thrilling, tense, and a bit confusing, especially for first-timers. However, understanding and leveraging the different types of land auctions can...
For farmers, the land is not just a vast expanse of earth. It’s the canvas on which they create sustenance, growth, and prosperity. Careful selection of land is a foundational step in realizing...
Have you ever dreamed of owning your own farmland and reaping the rewards of your labor? While it can be a lucrative investment, it's crucial to understand both the potential benefits and risks...
Inheriting farmland is not just a legal transaction of property; it’s often a legacy passing from one generation to the next, carrying the weight of memories, hard work, and heritage. However,...
Your choice of location is one of the most pivotal decisions you’ll make when it comes to founding a new business or expanding an existing one. Securing the right plot of land can mean the...
This is how to determine whether leasing farmland to a tenant or farming the land yourself is the right choice for your financial and personal goals
When it comes to farmland, you have two main...
Owning a farm is exciting. Whether you’re yearning for acres of vineyard, orchard, or pasture, each farm is as distinct as what you sow. However, buying a farm requires substantial planning....
Selling farmland at auction can seem like a daunting task, but it can be rewarding with the right knowledge and strategy. A smooth farmland auction is a highly successful and profitable experience....
When it comes to buying or selling property, understanding the different types of equity is crucial. In simple terms, equity refers to the value of an asset minus any outstanding debts or...
Deciding when to sell your farmland is a significant decision that can impact your financial future. With fluctuating market conditions and personal circumstances to consider, navigating the process...
Inheriting a property can be a difficult, emotional experience. And for many individuals, it can also be overwhelming, particularly when they need to sell the property. Here, we’ll educate you...
Property auctions can be a valuable avenue for investors looking to expand their portfolio, or individuals seeking a unique home. However, they are significantly different from traditional real...
In the fast-paced, multifaceted world of farming, having a professional farm manager makes a significant difference.
A professional farm manager comes with a wealth of knowledge in agricultural...
At auctions, two key terms often cause confusion—the guide price and the reserve price. Both of these terms are pivotal to understanding how auctions operate, yet their distinction is not...
Buying farmland is a substantial investment that can have a major impact on your financial future. With so many factors to consider, it's vital to ask the right questions before making a purchase....
Commercial real estate often serves as an important asset in a business owner’s financial portfolio. However, there comes a time when selling this property becomes a feasible option.
Before...
Real estate plays a significant role in the world of investment, and land is a cornerstone of many property transactions. Land typically appreciates in value as demand for property rises. However,...
Over the years, farmers have developed a number of strategies to increase their yields. One of the most important strategies is crop rotation – a system of planting different crops in various...
Bidding at an auction is efficient and rewarding, but some bidders may find the terminology used at auctions to be quite confusing. When it comes to auctions, there are several terms that you should...
Farming and land ownership can provide a steady income, but farming also involves large investments and risks. Protecting these investments is essential for the success of any farm or land owner,...
Overseeing a successful farm requires more than planting the right seeds for your crops—though that’s definitely important, too. Farmland property can be very valuable for the manager and...
If you're considering selling your farmland, one of the most important decisions you'll need to make is how you’ll sell it. While traditional methods like listing your property with a real...
As a landowner, you may consider selling your property at some point. Like selling a home, there is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the best time to sell your land. However,...
Land is a significant and valuable investment. When the moment arrives to sell, many landowners seek strategies to optimize their profit. Assess these many benefits of using a broker for selling land...
One of the biggest questions anyone will have before an auction is how long does it last? Knowing how long it will take for you to browse, bid, and go home is important if you’re planning to...
One of the most profitable and expedient methods of selling farmland is through auction. This method has both short-term and long-term benefits that can help you maximize your returns on the sale of...
Having a successful, mutually beneficial agreement between farmland owners and tenant farmers benefits all involved. However, negotiating a fair and profitable lease can be complicated.
To help...
Farmland auctions help buyers find great properties at great values, which they can use for their own farming needs. For sellers, these events are opportunities to profit from their land, so...
Modern property auctions are versatile enough to suit a lot of buyers’ and sellers’ needs in many ways. You can go to a traditional auction in person, and often to the property that is up...
Bidding on property during an auction isn’t something you should do on a whim. Walking into an auction with a clear plan will help you get ahead of the competition in the room. This is your...
Real estate and farmland offer valuable opportunities for sellers and buyers alike. Getting the best value for both parties requires knowing all the buying options available, such as auctions. So,...
Buying land and buying homes seems similar at first glance. So, it’s easy to forget that there is a big difference between them. Learn how to prepare for a sale and accurately list your...
Working on a farm can be dangerous if you don’t take the necessary precautions. Whether it’s operating heavy machinery, working with hazardous chemicals, or dealing with unpredictable...
Are you a landowner looking to work with a tenant farmer? Do you want the best possible result for both parties? If so, this guide is for you.
Working with a tenant farmer can bring many benefits to...
Farmers and landowners have long faced the challenge of protecting their crops from weather, pests, disease and other damaging factors. Thanks to crop insurance, though, they have access to financial...
Want to protect a special feature or natural characteristic of your farmland but don’t want to give up ownership?
That’s exactly what a conservation easement is for – and it is an...
A farm's value cannot be overstated. As an asset, farmland is incredibly valuable. The question that is top of mind for many landowners, though, is how much is their farm worth.
According to the...
Whether you need to get in a better place financially or are ready to capitalize on a long-term investment, selling farmland can be a great way to generate a substantial cash influx.
And when we say...
Every major purchase requires due diligence. With a purchase as pricy and as important for meeting financial goals as buying farmland, all that research becomes even more critical.
It’s not...
The calendar has turned over and it’s time to put plans for the new year into full focus. New year, new you, as the saying goes.
Hopefully, 2022 was a good year for your farm and your family...
Responsible soil stewardship is one of the most important practices a landowner can value. Farmers simply would not be able to maintain consistently healthy yields without soil stewardship.
Though...
Farmers can often lose sleep over many different issues. But good crop insurance hopefully helps take a little bit of weight off their shoulders.
Crop insurance protects farmers and agricultural...
Fall is here. For farmers, that means harvest is here, as well.
In the best years, harvest is rewarding. But even when the rewards of the countless hours of hard work that led to this point are...
One of the best places to purchase farmland is at property auctions. You have a better chance of buying land at a favorable cost, and it is also fast. While that is the case, going to a property...
Farmers face many risks, and financial strife is one of the most critical. Due to price fluctuations, legal issues, and production problems, farmers may make less income than anticipated. Financial...
You expect to get high yields as you direct your attention and resources to your farm. The productivity of your farm is essential as it drives the growth of your farming operations and income.
To...
Unsure of what contract farming is? Have questions about the process? This guide will answer everything you need to know.
If you're a farmer, you know that the farming industry is constantly...
Getting the right farmland is not easy. However, with a good checklist, you can purchase a property that meets your agricultural needs. Get information on the critical factors to think about before...
Farm expenditure can be difficult to track, especially if you are not used to doing so. Start by evaluating your current expenses and make cuts where necessary. Look for ways to reduce costs without...
Did you know that the agriculture and food industry is one of the world's largest and most important industries? It employs millions of people and generates billions of dollars in revenue each...
Find out how you and other farmers in your area can work together to turn around your fortunes.
Small farmers with limited resources and skills have common challenges and can benefit from working...
Starting a farm from scratch is no easy task. A lot of people want to start one but don't know where to begin. When you're trying to decide how much work is involved in starting a successful farm,...
Fewer resources mean modern farm managers must be more efficient and economical with their time. Here's what you need to know about the skills that every modern-day farm manager should...
A lot of people are interested in knowing how to buy land. They are looking for land that is not just a financial investment but also is an investment in their future family. Land is the perfect...
A close look at the Livestock Enterprise Budget for Iowa in 2021 will reveal the overall estimates of production costs for regular livestock enterprises in Iowa. These estimates project average and...
Farmers in the United States use crop insurance as a risk management tool. In Iowa, 93% of soybean and corn planted area got insured in 2014; this participation rate hasn't been constant. Regardless...
Summertime is usually a period when farmers begin to devise means of managing their crops. It is especially the case in Iowa. These management practices will depend on the planting date and the goals...
During the Ice Age, as the weather became colder, ice and snow piled up and pushed out the outer edges of enormous ice sheets in the form of glaciers. A narrative describes it as similar to a pancake...
Iowa, like other parts of the world, is experiencing the effects of climate change. Though, it is more affected than the rest of the United States, according to a 2019 analysis from the Iowa Policy...
One of the common questions we often get from Iowa farmland owners is, “when is the best time to sell a farmland?” This question attracts different responses depending on the Iowa...
When we talk about rented farmland, we are more than likely talking about land that is owned by what is known as a non-operator landlord. A non-operator landlord is a person who owns the farmland but...
As someone who is familiar with farming, you know it’s a demanding industry in which to work.
But working on the farm is not only demanding for people, but also for the equipment and machinery...
Every farmer should have some idea of what their farmland is worth.
Whether they are looking to sell their land in the near future, somewhere down the road or even if they have no intention at all...
Leasing farmland can be an attractive option for many landowners. Whether they are investors, active farmers or members of a family who have inherited land, leasing can be a great option for those...
Retirement for farmers can be equal parts freeing, bittersweet and daunting. There are many emotions that go into farming when you are active that can weigh heavily on your mind when retirement age...
Buying farmland is a major opportunity. Not only does more land mean the potential for larger business operations – and hopefully higher farm revenue – but it also could be one of the...
Investors looking for a financially sound long-term investment that is highly likely to generate returns should look no further than farmland. Plus, what’s better about farmland than many other...
When you own farmland, the land’s success directly translates to your success. If you are like many landowners, though, that also means ensuring the success of a tenant farmer who is...
Crop insurance is always changing. There’s a lot to keep track of year to year and, with all those changes, plenty of misinformation and misconceptions cloud farmers’ and...
Farming is not for the faint of heart.
Though that’s likely not news to anyone involved in agriculture in any way, it’s certainly a fact that needs to be acknowledged. With all the hard...
There’s a lot to consider when weighing a decision on selling farmland. It’s a decision that should never be rushed or reached without careful research, proper partnerships and sound...
Farming isn’t for everyone, but this basic truth that just about everyone in the industry acknowledges has not been keeping some people away from trying to get their start as beginning...
Crop insurance is a farmer’s best friend when managing risk.
These programs have been around since the Great Depression, when Congress first implemented the federal crop insurance program....
Soil quality matters for every farm operation. There’s no getting around this fact. For a farm to be successful, the people who operate it must realize the vital role soil stewardship and...
Leasing farmland is a common practice. In Iowa, more than half of farmland is rented to tenant farmers, per Iowa State University. That increases to as much as two-thirds of farmland in areas of...
This is often not an easy decision and it's one that should never be reached lightly. However, the process of finding a tenant can result in an ideal partnership that can lead to better returns on...
Crop insurance is a necessity for many farmers. In fact, according to the USDA, the majority of farmland acreage in the U.S. is insured under the Federal Crop Insurance Program - more than 300...
Wetlands, known as natural water filters, are vital to protecting water sources and supplies that our population uses for drinking water and our farmers use for production.
However, many of the...
Buying farmland can be a great business move for both farmers and investors. Owning agricultural land can open the doors to many excellent tax advantages, business growth strategies and investment...
Succession is not everyone’s favorite topic. In farming, succession normally means passing on land or farm operations to a family member, heir or employee.
This process takes a lot of time and...
Farmland is an undeniably valuable asset.
Farm real estate, which includes land and structure, accounts for 80 percent of the total value of all farm assets in the United States in recent years,...
Buying farmland is always a major decision that requires having the right information. Without knowing how to get that information, though, you could be left stuck on whether or not to go through...
After a very wet spring flooded many Midwest farmers, the region’s summer weather so far has not done much to decrease the drenching of fields. Many fields are simply too wet to...
More than half of Iowa farmland is owned by someone other than the farmer. Across the United States, more than half of farmland is farmed by tenant farmers, so this is not unique to Iowa.
Likewise,...
Leasing farmland is very common.
In Iowa, more than half of farmland is rented to tenants who actually farm on the land. This varies by region, according to Iowa State University Extension and...
It's no secret that buying or selling farmland is a major step for farmers. Many farmers look to take the step or make investments for the future at some point in their careers.
In fact, according...
Crop rotation is one of the oldest land conservation practices used by farmers. In recent years, though, the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service has taken an interest in promoting crop...
Toward the end of 2018, it wasn't clear whether the new Farm Bill version would be approved. Its predecessor, the 2014 Farm Bill, expired on Sept. 30. Thankfully, last month both the House and the...
Agriculture is one of the driving forces of our economy, contributing well over $992 billion each year.
Though it's a huge industry, farming is not without its risk. Crops can be damaged quickly,...
There are 35.7 million acres of land in Iowa and 30 of them are farmland.
That means 90% of the entire state is farming property. Iowa farmers are proud of their number one ranking in the United...
