How Do Families Make Farm Decisions?

How do families make farm decisions about farmland ownership and succession

How do families make farm decisions? The most successful farm families make decisions through open communication, shared goals, careful planning, and a clear understanding of both financial and family priorities. Whether the decision involves buying land, selling farmland, leasing acres, or passing the farm to the next generation, collaboration is often the key to long-term […]

Fair vs. Equal: Why Farm Succession Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All

Combine harvesting soybeans on a family farm, highlighting the importance of fair and equitable farm succession planning to preserve agricultural operations for future generations.

Equal division of farm assets—splitting everything 50/50—often creates more conflict than it resolves. True fairness in farm succession means accounting for each heir’s contribution, involvement, and future role, then building a plan that reflects those realities rather than a simple formula. Few conversations are harder to have on a family farm than succession planning. Who […]

Why Long-Term Planning Is the Key to Smart Landownership

Landowner overlooking farmland at sunset while planning for long-term land stewardship, property value growth, and generational wealth.

Long-term thinking in landownership builds generational wealth, supports environmental sustainability, and protects against market volatility. Landowners who adopt a patient, strategic mindset consistently outperform those who chase short-term gains—financially, legally, and ecologically. Most people who regret a land decision didn’t lack information. They lacked patience. The history of landownership is full of sellers who bailed […]

Should You Hold Iowa Farmland in an LLC?

Iowa farmland with corn fields, grain bins, and farm buildings representing farmland ownership, farm succession planning, and the benefits of holding Iowa farmland in an LLC.

Quick answer: Yes, holding Iowa farmland in a Limited Liability Company (LLC) offers significant benefits, including personal liability protection, simplified estate planning, and seamless farm succession. However, Midwestern landowners must weigh these advantages against setup costs, ongoing administrative requirements, and specific Iowa tax implications before making a final decision. For Midwestern landowners planning their retirement […]

Estate Planning Tips to Avoid Probate for Farmland Owners

When it comes to farmland and real estate, planning ahead is the best way to protect your legacy and ensure a smooth transition for your family. Unfortunately, one of the biggest hurdles landowners face is probate—the legal process of validating a will and distributing assets. Without proper planning, probate can become lengthy, costly, and emotionally […]

The Rise of Online Personal Property Auctions: Convenient, Efficient, and Exciting

In today’s fast-paced world, buying and selling personal property has gone digital. Online personal property auctions are revolutionizing the way people engage in the auction process, making it more accessible, convenient, and efficient for both buyers and sellers. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a small business owner, or simply someone looking to downsize, online auctions […]