See national chem pricing trends in the FBN Research report
Buying or selling farmland is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll make. It's a complex process involving unique market dynamics, land assessments, and specialized legal considerations.
Just as you wouldn't trust your tractor's engine to an inexperienced mechanic, you shouldn't entrust your land transaction to just any real estate agent. Finding a reputable farm real estate agent is paramount to a successful and stress-free experience.
Unlike residential real estate, farm real estate requires a deep understanding of:
Agricultural Land Values: Beyond per-acre price, they understand soil productivity, drainage, tillable vs. non-tillable acres, and potential for various crops or livestock.
Farm Infrastructure: Knowledge of barns, grain bins, irrigation systems, and their true market value.
Water Rights and Easements: Critical legal components that can significantly impact a farm's value and use.
Government Programs: Familiarity with CRP (Conservation Reserve Program), FSA loans, and other agricultural policies.
Rural Market Dynamics: Understanding local trends, community specifics, and the unique buyer pool for farm properties.
A general real estate agent simply won't have this nuanced expertise, potentially leading to mispricing, missed opportunities, or costly oversights.
Local Agricultural Networks:
Word-of-Mouth: This is often the most reliable method. Talk to trusted fellow farmers, landowners, bankers, and even equipment dealers in your area. They often have firsthand experience or strong recommendations. Ask them: "Who did you use when you bought/sold land, and would you use them again?"
Farm Bureaus and Associations: Local chapters of Farm Bureau, cattlemen's associations, or commodity groups often have lists of preferred service providers or can offer referrals.
Specialized Real Estate Firms:
Look for real estate companies that explicitly market themselves as specializing in "farm and ranch real estate," "agricultural land," or "rural properties." These firms often have agents whose entire careers are dedicated to this niche. A quick search for "farm real estate agents [your county/state]" should reveal these specialists.
Once you have a list of potential agents, conduct thorough interviews to assess their suitability:
Proven Experience in Farm Sales:
Ask about their track record: How many farm properties have they sold in your specific county or region in the last 1-3 years?
Request references from past farm clients and actually call them.
Deep Local Market Knowledge:
Can they discuss recent comparable sales (“comps”) that are truly similar to your property?
Do they understand local soil types, drainage issues, and typical cropping patterns?
Do they know the local "hot spots" or areas with particular demand?
Agricultural Background or Understanding:
Do they speak "farmer"? Someone who grew up on a farm or has extensive experience working with farmers will better understand your unique needs and challenges.
Strong Marketing Strategy:
How will they market your property? Beyond listing on MLS, do they use agricultural publications, specialized land listing sites, drone photography, soil maps, and targeted outreach to investor groups or neighboring farmers?
Professional Credentials and Affiliations:
Are they a licensed real estate agent in your state?
Do they hold any specific accreditations in land sales or appraisal?
Are they members of relevant professional organizations like the REALTORS® Land Institute (RLI), which offers advanced training for land professionals?
Choosing the right farm real estate agent is an investment in a smoother transaction and a potentially better outcome. By leveraging your network, targeting specialists, and thoroughly vetting candidates, you can find a reputable partner who truly understands the land and your livelihood.
AcreVision from FBN Finance offers farmers a powerful, data-driven approach to optimize land investments. By providing detailed, hyper-local insights into land values, rental rates, and market trends, AcreVision empowers you to make more informed decisions about buying, selling, or leasing farmland.
This innovative tool leverages FBN's extensive data network to deliver unprecedented transparency and precision, helping farmers maximize profitability and strategically manage their most valuable asset – their land.
Unlock the full potential of your acreage with AcreVision.
Once you've teamed up with a reputable farm real estate agent to find that perfect parcel, the next crucial step is securing the financing. This is where the intricacies of land loans come into play, requiring a lending partner who truly understands the agricultural landscape.
At FBN Finance, we specialize in providing tailored land loan solutions, designed not just to get you the financing you need today, but to support your farm's long-term growth and prosperity.
We offer competitive rates and flexible terms for land loans, understanding that every farm's financial situation is unique. Our streamlined online application process provides quick decisions, helping you move swiftly when the right opportunity arises. We aim to make acquiring land a seamless experience, allowing you to focus on what matters most: growing your operation.
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Terms and conditions apply. Land financing offered by FBN Finance, LLC, provided in connection with Farmer Mac and our underwriting partners, and is available only where FBN Finance, LLC is licensed. To qualify, a borrower must be a member of Farmer’s Business Network, Inc., and meet the underwriting requirements of FBN Finance, LLC and its lending partners. All credit is subject to approval and underwriting. Interest rates and fees will vary depending on your individual situation. Not all applicants will qualify. NMLS ID: 1631119.
The material provided is for information purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for specific professional advice. Neither Farmer’s Business Network nor any of its affiliates makes any representations or warranties, express or implied, as to the accuracy or completeness of the statements or any information contained in the material and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed.