Farm Lease Termination in Iowa: Don’t Miss the September 1st Deadline

Thinking about selling your farmland this fall? Add lease termination to your checklist—because in Iowa, most farm leases automatically renew unless one party serves written notice on or before September 1. Miss that date and you’re likely stuck with the lease (and the tenant) for another crop year. Iowa’s Automatic Renewal Rule—In Plain English Iowa […]

What is a Sealed Bid Auction?

Aerial view of Story County Iowa farmland promoted for a sealed bid auction by Whitaker Marketing Group, showing 37.18 acres outlined in orange.

A sealed bid auction allows potential buyers to submit confidential offers without knowing what others have offered. This process motivates each bidder to present their best possible offer based on the property’s value. Many farmland and real estate sales use sealed bids because they combine fairness with efficiency. How Does a Sealed Bid Auction Work? […]

December 2024 Land Market Update

Iowa farmland trends map showing high, median, and low land values by crop reporting district from August 2024 to January 2025.

As 2024 came to a close, the Iowa farmland market demonstrated remarkable resilience and stability. Despite a few regional shifts, the market remained steady, offering opportunities for both buyers and sellers. Here’s a closer look at how values changed and what these trends mean for the agricultural real estate market. High-End Prices: Slight Declines Per […]

Iowa Farmland Market Update – Trends and Insights for Late 2024

Map of Iowa showing farmland value trends by crop reporting district from May 2024 to October 2024, including high, median, and low prices per acre and CSR2 values.

As we approach the end of 2024, the Iowa farmland market is showing signs of stabilization. After a year of shifting trends, there’s much to reflect on, especially when it comes to both land prices and sales activity. While some aspects of the market are softening, others are holding strong, offering unique opportunities depending on […]

August 2024 Iowa Farmland Value Update

Iowa land trends map showing high, medium, and low farmland values per acre and CSR2 scores across each crop reporting district from April to September 2024.

As of August 2024, Iowa farmland values continue to show remarkable strength, with the market reflecting significant interest from both agricultural operators and investors alike. Data from recent months highlights stable growth in farmland prices, underpinned by robust agricultural production, increased investor demand, and market trends that favor rural land as a long-term asset. Key […]

Why Farmland Auctions Are a Smart Choice for Sellers

Group of professionals gathered in a meeting room discussing strategy and reviewing information together.

When you’re selling farmland, choosing the right method can shape your final outcome. Farmland auctions continue to be one of the strongest strategies for landowners. They offer speed, transparency, and competitive pricing. Whether you’re selling a family farm, settling an estate, or cashing in on rising values, auctions help you get results faster and with […]

Whitaker Marketing Group Wins 2024 People’s Choice Award for Best of Carroll County!

People’s Choice Awards 2024 graphic showing Whitaker Marketing Group recognized as the Best of Carroll County.

We are thrilled to announce that Whitaker Marketing Group has wonthe People’s Choice Award for Best Auction Company of Carroll County 2024! This recognition reflects the hard work, dedication, and passion we put into every farmland auction and client relationship. A True Community Achievement This award would not have been possible without our community, clients, […]

The Benefits of Hiring a Real Estate Company

Whitaker Marketing Group logo featuring the outline of Iowa and the slogan “Land Is Our Brand” on a black background.

Navigating the complexities of buying or selling real estate can be a daunting task. Whether you’re looking to purchase your dream home, invest in commercial property, or sell your farmland, the process involves numerous steps, legal considerations, and market dynamics that can overwhelm even the most seasoned individuals. This is where a professional real estate […]

Iowa Farmland Market Trends: Understanding the Recent Price Drop

Close-up view of tall green corn leaves in midsummer under a cloudy sky.

Iowa farmland prices have recently dropped by 3% compared to a year ago. This shift is creating new opportunities and challenges for both buyers and sellers in the farmland market. Let’s dive into why this decrease is happening and how it might impact your next land transaction. What’s Happening with Farmland Prices? Over the past […]