How Often Does Iowa Farmland Change Ownership?
Iowa farmland does not change ownership very often. More than half of Iowa farmland has been held by the same owners for at least 20 years, according to Iowa State University’s 2022 Farmland Ownership and Tenure Survey. About 20% had been held for more than 40 years. This long-term ownership helps explain why quality Iowa […]
Farm Economy & Land Outlook: What Iowa Landowners and Farmers Should Watch in 2026
The 2026 ISU Soil Management and Land Valuation Conference brought together agricultural professionals, landowners, appraisers, lenders, and farm operators to discuss the current state of the farm economy and the future of Iowa farmland values. Conversations throughout the conference focused on commodity markets, cash rents, input costs, global agriculture, and long-term land investment trends shaping […]
Iowa Land Auction Results: May 9–15, 2026 Market Update
The Iowa farmland auction market remained active during the week of May 9–15, 2026, with several tillable land sales reported across the state. Recent auction activity in Jasper, Louisa, and Harrison counties continued to show strong demand for productive farmland, especially tracts with quality soils and strong tillable acreage percentages. Although overall auction volume has […]
Should You List or Auction Your Development Land?
Transitioning ownership of rural property brings unique challenges, especially when developers are looking for new opportunities in the Midwest. If you hold land with high development potential, selecting the right sales method directly impacts the final sale price and the timeline of the transaction. You need a straightforward approach that maximizes your land’s value while […]
Are Auctions the Best Way to Sell Inherited Land?
Taking ownership of a family farm or rural property often brings mixed emotions and complex choices. For many heirs, maintaining the property is simply not feasible due to distance, financial goals, or differing plans among family members. When the time comes to sell, one question frequently arises: is an auction the best method for inherited […]
What Happens on Auction Day? A Guide for Sellers
If you’re wondering what happens on auction day for sellers, you are not alone. Many landowners have questions before the sale. They want to know who will attend, how bidding works, and what happens after the final bid. Auction day is the result of weeks of preparation, marketing, and buyer conversations. By the time the […]
How to Prepare Your Farmland for an Auction
Land auctions offer a transparent, competitive environment that often drives up the final sale price, creating a smooth transaction experience for sellers. Buyers compete openly, ensuring you receive true market value. However, achieving optimal sale prices requires strategic planning. You cannot simply place a sign in the dirt and expect a premium return. To guarantee […]
How Auctions Create Urgency and Drive Competitive Bidding
Selling your farmland or rural property is a major financial decision. You want a smooth transaction experience and the highest possible return on your investment. One of the most effective ways to maximize your land’s value is through the auction method. But how do auctions create urgency among buyers? Understanding this dynamic can help you […]
How Long Does the Farmland Auction Process Take?
Selling your farmland or rural property is a major financial decision, especially if you are planning for retirement or settling an estate. Naturally, one of the most common questions landowners ask is about timing. You want a smooth, stress-free transaction that maximizes your land’s value without dragging on for months. So, exactly how long does […]
Do Auctions Really Bring Higher Prices for Farmland?
Selling your Midwestern farmland or rural property is a major financial milestone. Whether you are planning for retirement, settling an estate, or reallocating capital, your primary goal is to maximize your land’s value. Many landowners wonder if an auction is the best route to achieve this. Auctions certainly have a strong reputation for achieving premium […]