How to Compare Farmland in Two Different Counties
To compare farmland across two counties, evaluate five key factors: soil productivity ratings, recent sale prices, property tax rates, access to utilities and infrastructure, and crop yield history. USDA soil surveys, county assessor records, and experienced land brokers provide the data you need to make a confident, informed investment decision. Buying farmland is a major […]
Buying Farmland With a Tenant: Good or Bad Investment?
Buying farmland with an existing tenant can be a strong advantage or a real limitation, depending on your goals. An established lease means immediate income and less operational risk. But it also limits your control over the land. The right choice depends on your investment timeline and priorities. Purchasing farmland that already has a tenant […]
Does a Wind Turbine Increase Farmland Value?
Wind turbines can increase farmland value by 5–15%, primarily through long-term lease payments and investor appeal. However, the net impact depends on turbine proximity, local market sentiment, and lease structure. Landowners should weigh both the income potential and the resale implications before signing any agreement. Wind turbines are becoming a familiar sight across Midwestern farmland. […]
What Is Prime Farmland? A Guide for Land Buyers and Sellers
Prime farmland, as defined by the USDA, is land with the best combination of physical and chemical characteristics for producing food, feed, fiber, and forage crops. It features adequate moisture, fertile soil, good drainage, and minimal flooding risk—making it the most productive and valuable category of agricultural land. Farmland is not created equal. Some parcels […]
What Challenges Will Future Farmers Face?
The challenges future farmers will face include rising costs, labor shortages, changing technology, unpredictable weather, and market swings. Farmers will need to find new ways to control costs and protect their land. They will also need to make smart decisions about the farmland they own and operate. Farming has never been easy. However, the challenges […]
How Has Farming Changed in the Last 25 Years?
Over the past 25 years, farming has shifted from manual, instinct-based practices to precision, technology-driven agriculture. GPS systems, drones, regenerative soil methods, and direct-to-consumer markets have reshaped how food is grown—and how Iowa farmland is valued by investors today. Farming in 1999 looked very different from farming today. Fields that once relied on a farmer’s […]
Why Does Efficiency Matter More Than Ever for Farmers?
Farmland efficiency directly determines profitability for Iowa farmers. Rising input costs, tighter margins, and growing market competition mean that every acre must perform. Precision agriculture, soil health management, and strategic land selection are the most reliable ways to maximize returns on Iowa farmland. Farming has always demanded hard work. But in 2026, hard work alone […]
Why Is Crop Rotation Important for Healthy Soil?
Crop rotation benefits farmers in several ways. It can improve soil health, reduce pest problems, balance nutrients, and lower the need for some chemical inputs. Over time, a good crop rotation can also support stronger yields and better long-term farm productivity. Healthy soil does not happen by accident. Farmers need to manage it carefully from […]
What Is a Premium Farm?
What is a premium farm? A premium farm is a property that stands out from others because of its exceptional productivity, location, income potential, and long-term value. While no two farms are identical, premium farms consistently attract strong buyer interest and often command higher sale prices because they possess qualities that are difficult to replicate. […]
What Information Helps Buyers Make Decisions When Purchasing Farmland?
What information helps buyers make decisions when purchasing farmland? If you’re preparing to sell land, understanding the answer can make a significant difference. Today’s farmland buyers expect detailed, accurate information before they make an offer. The more useful information you provide, the more confidence buyers have in your property. Soil Quality and Productivity For most […]