The Essential Spring Planting Guide for Farmers: Preparing for a Prosperous Season

A John Deere tractor pulling a planter across a large field during spring planting at sunset, kicking up dust as it seeds the soil.

As the last frost of winter thaws and the first green shoots of spring begin to emerge, farmers across the Midwest are turning their thoughts to the most critical time of the year: spring planting season. This period sets the stage for the year’s harvest, making preparation and timely action crucial. This guide offers comprehensive […]

How can I add more value to my farmland?

A farmland field with upward arrows and a dollar sign symbolizing increasing farmland values and rising agricultural investment returns.

Top 50 Questions about Farmland Adding value to your farmland starts with improving its productivity, usability, and appeal. In Iowa—where farmland values are largely driven by production agriculture—strategic improvements can significantly increase what your property is worth. By focusing on efficiency and buyer expectations, you can make thoughtful upgrades that pay off. Strategies to Add […]

How do we dissolve an LLC?

Clipboard with the words LLC Limited Liability Company, glasses, and a pen on a desk.

Top 50 Questions about Farmland Dissolving a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a multi-step process that ensures the business is closed legally and all financial and legal obligations are addressed. While consulting an attorney is recommended, here’s a general guide to help you understand the process. Key Steps to Dissolve an LLC Review the Operating […]

Selling a farm if it’s rented or leased?

Top 50 Questions about Farmland The short answer is yes, you absolutely can.But there are a few important things to understand about how leases work in Iowa. How Lease Termination Works in Iowa In Iowa, lease termination must occur by September 1st.If you did not serve lease termination, we can still sell your farm. The […]

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 […]

Can you manage my farm?

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

Top 50 Questions about Farmland Yes, we can! At Whitaker Marketing Group, we offer professional farm management services to ensure your land is managed with care, expertise, and dedication to maintaining its productivity and your family’s legacy. Why Consider Farm Management? Farm management is ideal for those who: Have inherited farmland but lack agricultural experience. […]

Whitaker Marketing Group Donates to Huxley Police and Huxley Fire Department

Whitaker Marketing Group presents donation checks to the Huxley Police Department and Huxley Fire and Rescue, with team members standing together at the Huxley City Hall.

A Commitment to Community Whitaker Marketing Group (WMG), a local leader in auctions and real estate, proudly announces its support for the Huxley Police Department and the Huxley Fire Department. This effort grew naturally from WMG’s recent collaboration with Huxley Communications Cooperative. Together, the two organizations continue to show their dedication to strengthening the Huxley […]

Can I sell my interest in the farm?

Graphic displaying the text “Top 50 Questions About Farmland” over a lush green cornfield with a blue sky background.

Top 50 Questions about Farmland Yes, you can sell your interest in a farm, but the process depends on several factors, including how the ownership is structured and whether the farm can be physically or legally divided. Here’s what you need to know. Key Considerations Before Selling Your Interest 1. Ownership Structure Tenants in Common: […]

What is a closing disclosure?

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

Top 50 Questions about Farmland A Closing Disclosure is a detailed document that itemizes all fees, costs, and financial details for a farmland transaction. It ensures transparency by breaking down expenses for both the buyer and the seller. What’s Included in a Closing Disclosure? Buyer and Seller Sections: Both sides start with the same total […]

What happens after the auction?

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

Top 50 Questions about Farmland Once your farmland auction ends and the winning bidder is confirmed, several important steps begin to finalize the transaction and ensure a smooth, organized closing. 1. Signing the Purchase Agreement Right after the auction concludes, the seller and buyer meet to sign the purchase agreement. This step sets the terms […]