What is a 156 form?
Top 50 Questions about Farmland The 156 Form is a vital document for farmland owners, often referred to as the “pedigree” of your farm. It provides detailed information about your farm’s characteristics, usage, and participation in government programs. What Information is on a 156 Form? Acreage Details: Total acres. Crop acres. Tillable acres as recognized […]
How and when do you serve lease termination?
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 […]
Where do I find the abstract?
Top 50 Questions about Farmland An abstract is a crucial document that details the chain of title for farmland, tracing ownership back to when the U.S. government first granted the land. If you’re trying to locate your parents’ abstract, there are a few common places to check. Common Locations for Abstracts Safety Deposit Box: This […]
What time do I need to be there?
Top 50 Questions about Farmland A common question sellers ask is when to arrive for a farmland auction. While buyers often show up just minutes before bidding begins, sellers benefit from arriving earlier to review details, connect with the auction team, and ensure everything is ready for a smooth sale. Understanding the best arrival time […]
When does the buyer get possession?
Top 50 Questions about Farmland Understanding the farmland possession timeline is essential for both buyers and sellers during a farmland transaction. Most people assume possession transfers the moment ownership changes, but leases and purchase agreement terms can shift when full control is granted. Knowing how the farmland possession timeline works helps avoid confusion and ensures […]
What is a 1031 tax exchange?
Top 50 Questions about Farmland A 1031 Tax-Deferred Exchange, named after IRS Code 1031, allows you to defer capital gains taxes when you sell a property and reinvest the proceeds into a “like-kind” property. This strategy is widely used for farmland sales to maximize reinvestment and minimize tax burdens. How Does a 1031 Exchange Work? […]
Can I sell my share of the farmland if my family does not want to?
Top 50 Questions about Farmland Selling farmland when your family disagrees can be complex, but it’s possible depending on the circumstances. In Iowa, the key factor is ownership percentage and whether the land can be divided. Key Considerations Ownership Percentage: If you own 25% or less, selling without family agreement is unlikely. If you own […]
What is the FSA (Farm Service Agency)
Top 50 Questions about Farmland The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is a government agency under the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that provides programs and services to support farmers and landowners. Its primary goal is to help farmers manage risk, improve land productivity, and ensure the stability of agricultural production in the U.S. Key Functions […]
Should we split the farm into multiple tracts?
Top 50 Questions about Farmland Deciding whether splitting a farm into tracts is the best strategy depends on several factors, including geography, buyer demand, and your goals as the seller. This decision often comes up during the farmland valuation process, when both the physical layout and the marketability of the property are reviewed. Key Factors […]
Can I Sell My Farm If It Is Leased Out?
Top 50 Questions about Farmland Many landowners wonder whether selling leased farmland in Iowa is possible, and the answer is yes. Whether your farm is currently under a lease or has an open lease agreement, Iowa law provides several options that allow you to sell successfully while maintaining compliance and transparency. Key Considerations When Selling […]
