Marketing Farmland Across Multiple States: Challenges and Strategies

At Whitaker Marketing Group, we work every day to connect sellers with the right buyers for their farmland. However, while marketing a single property in one county comes with its own considerations, expanding farmland sales across multiple states introduces a new level of complexity. Moreover, from understanding local regulations to navigating different buyer expectations, marketing […]

Transitioning CRP Land Back to Row Crop Farming

Tall grass CRP land transitioning back into productive row crop farmland under a clear blue sky.

If you’ve ever managed land in Iowa, you know the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) isn’t just a government acronym—it’s been a big part of the farm landscape for a long time. CRP’s done a heap of good, whether that’s holding soil in place, cleaning up water, or just giving pheasants somewhere to roost. But CRP […]

Top Mistakes Landowners Make When Selling Their Farmland

Selling farmland is one of the most important financial decisions a landowner can make. Whether you’re retiring, settling an estate, or simply restructuring your portfolio, the stakes are high. Unfortunately, many sellers leave money on the table—or face unnecessary delays—because of avoidable mistakes. At Whitaker Marketing Group, we’ve helped countless landowners navigate the sales process, […]

Estate Planning Tips to Avoid Probate for Farmland Owners

When it comes to farmland and real estate, planning ahead is the best way to protect your legacy and ensure a smooth transition for your family. Unfortunately, one of the biggest hurdles landowners face is probate—the legal process of validating a will and distributing assets. Without proper planning, probate can become lengthy, costly, and emotionally […]

Farm Lease Termination in Iowa: Don’t Miss the September 1st Deadline

Thinking about selling your farmland this fall? Add lease termination to your checklist—because in Iowa, most farm leases automatically renew unless one party serves written notice on or before September 1. Miss that date and you’re likely stuck with the lease (and the tenant) for another crop year. Iowa’s Automatic Renewal Rule—In Plain English Iowa […]

The Big Beautiful Bill: What This Massive Investment Really Means for Agriculture

The buzz around the latest Big Beautiful Bill isn’t just D.C. noise—it’s about the sheer size of the investment and how it reshapes safety nets, crop insurance, and disaster aid. After digging through the details and cross-checking the fine print, here’s what those changes actually mean in the field—for your balance sheet, your lender meetings, […]

Still Up 51.70% in 5 Years: Iowa Farmland Market Update – July 2025

Still Up 51.70% in 5 Years: What Does This Mean for Your Farm? Each year, Iowa farmland owners and investors look to the mid-year benchmark report to answer one question: Where is the market headed? The July 2025 report from Farm Credit Services of America delivers both clarity and opportunity. The Short-Term Dip Let’s start […]

How AI is Transforming the Farming Industry

AI technology monitoring soil health, moisture, sunlight, and pH in precision agriculture

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing agriculture by introducing advanced technologies that enhance efficiency, productivity, and sustainability. From precision farming to autonomous machinery, AI applications are reshaping how farming is conducted. Precision Agriculture AI-powered precision agriculture helps farmers monitor and manage their crops more efficiently. AI systems use drones, satellites, and sensors to collect real-time data […]

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? […]