The Growing Role of Investors in Iowa Farmland Auctions

Iowa farmland has always been at the heart of American agriculture. Traditionally, farms have been passed down through generations of family operators. In recent years, though, a noticeable shift has taken place — investors are playing a much larger role in Iowa’s farmland market. This trend is changing how farmland is bought, sold, and managed. […]

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 […]

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 […]

Do you sell in my county?

Map of all 99 Iowa counties outlined and labeled across the state.

Top 50 Questions about Farmland Yes, Whitaker Marketing Group sells farmland in every county in Iowa and across multiple Midwestern states. No matter where your property is located, we have the tools, reach, and expertise to market your farm to the right buyers—quickly and effectively. Why We Can Sell in Your County Extensive Local Knowledge: […]

2023 Iowa Farmland Overview

Map of 2023 Iowa farmland prices by county, showing average price per acre across the state with color-coded values ranging from around $7,000 to over $19,000 per acre.

Iowa farmland has remained a strong and dependable asset for both investors and farmers in recent years. Values continue to rise steadily, and several key factors—such as advancements in farming technology, shifts in land use, and national economic policies—continue to influence this upward trend. Auction Highlights Iowa hosted 1,049 farmland auctions covering 115,626 acres. These […]

Can you take a break at 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 Yes, auctioneers often take breaks during farmland auctions to keep the process fair, transparent, and manageable for both buyers and sellers. Farmland auctions involve major financial decisions, so breaks help everyone stay confident and informed throughout the event. Why Auctions Include Breaks Decision Time for BiddersFarmland purchases require careful thought. […]

What are the different types of auctions?

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

Top 50 Questions about Farmland At Whitaker Marketing Group, we provide a wide range of auction formats tailored to meet the needs of both sellers and buyers. Each method is designed to increase engagement and produce the strongest results for your property. Additionally, offering multiple formats ensures every farm and every seller has the right […]

What is ALC?

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

Top 50 Questions about Farmland ALC stands for Accredited Land Consultant, a prestigious designation awarded by the Realtors Land Institute (RLI) to professionals who demonstrate expertise and experience in land transactions. It is a mark of excellence in the farmland and real estate industry. What Does the ALC Designation Represent? Education: ALC designees complete advanced […]

Will the Land Market Remain Strong

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

Experts say farmland values may be heading for a plateau, even though several variables could still shift the market. By Cassidy Walter Market Momentum Slowing Headlines of record-setting sales and rapid appreciation created major excitement in the farmland market last year. As 2023 continues, industry experts say that momentum is easing. Prices remain strong, but […]