Managing Farm Finances: Key Strategies for Agricultural Success

Rows of U.S. dollar bills emerging from soil in a farm field, symbolizing financial growth and profitable farmland investments.

Managing farm finances is a crucial aspect of running a successful agricultural operation. With the inherent unpredictability of farming due to factors like weather, market fluctuations, and crop yields, having a solid financial management plan is essential for ensuring both short-term viability and long-term growth. In this blog, we’ll explore key strategies that farmers can […]

Crop Rotation Strategies in Iowa Farming: Enhancing Productivity and Sustainability

Side-by-side comparison of a corn field and a soybean field with a circular rotation icon representing Iowa crop rotation practices.

Crop rotation has been a cornerstone of agricultural practices for centuries, and in Iowa, it plays a critical role in maintaining the health and productivity of the state’s fertile farmlands. As one of the leading agricultural states in the U.S., Iowa’s farmers have developed and refined crop rotation strategies that not only maximize yields but […]

Leasing vs. Buying: Which is Best for You?

Tractor harvesting a mature cornfield with a forage harvester chute loading chopped corn into a trailing wagon.

When it comes to acquiring farmland, one of the most significant decisions you’ll face is whether to lease or buy. Both options have their advantages and drawbacks, and the right choice depends on your financial situation, long-term goals, and operational needs. Let’s explore the pros and cons of leasing versus buying farmland to help you […]

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 […]

Iowa Farmland Market Update for Iowa Trust Association Members

Hands holding a small tree growing from stacked coins, symbolizing growth and investment.

Dear Iowa Trust Association Members, I hope this message finds you well. As a committed partner in Iowa’s farmland real estate sector, I’d like to share a concise update on current land values, agricultural expectations, and recent market insights. Market Resilience Amidst Price Adjustments Recently, Iowa farmland values have decreased by approximately 3.5%. Even with […]

Do we need an appraisal on the farm?

Graphic showing a cornfield with the text “Top 50 Questions About Farmland” overlaid in bold white and orange lettering.

Top 50 Questions about Farmland Whether or not you need an appraisal depends on your specific situation, such as selling, settling an estate, or determining tax basis. While an auction often serves as a live, real-time appraisal, there are instances where a formal or certified appraisal is necessary. When Do You Need an Appraisal? For […]

What is a tax basis?

Graphic with a cornfield background displaying the text 'Top 50 Questions About Farmland' in bold white and orange lettering.

Top 50 Questions about Farmland Tax basis is the starting value used to determine the gain or loss when you sell an asset, such as farmland. It plays a critical role in calculating taxes and can significantly impact your tax liability. How Tax Basis is Determined Initial Basis: If you purchased the farm, your basis […]

Do we have Investors?

Graphic with the words 'Top 50 Questions About Farmland' over a green cornfield with blue sky in the background.

Top 50 Questions about Farmland Farmland investors play an increasingly important role in today’s land market. When you sell your farm—whether by auction or traditional listing—these investors often help drive stronger competition and higher sale prices. Understanding who they are and how they operate can help you make more informed decisions. Types of Investors Farmland […]

What are the time limits for 1031 tax exchange?

Graphic showing a cornfield with the text “Top 50 Questions About Farmland” overlaid in bold white and orange lettering.

Top 50 Questions about Farmland A 1031 tax-deferred exchange lets you reinvest the proceeds from a property sale into another like-kind property while deferring capital gains taxes. To make the most of this strategy, you must follow the IRS timelines closely. When you understand these deadlines, you can plan ahead and keep your exchange on […]

How and when do you serve lease termination?

Graphic with the words 'Top 50 Questions About Farmland' over a green cornfield with blue sky in the background.

Top 50 Questions about Farmland In Iowa, lease termination is a critical step when planning to sell farmland that has a tenant farmer. Here’s what you need to know about the process and timeline. When to Serve Lease Termination Termination Deadline: Notice to terminate a farm lease must be served by September 1 of the […]