Buying & Selling

If you’re in the market to purchase a farm, get some good advice before you start shopping. “Choose an agent that specializes in your property type,” says Joshua Sukraw at United Country Real Estate (UnitedCountry.com). “Many agents likely don’t know about soil quality, government programs, crop rental rates, mineral rights, easements, water rights, Conservation Reserve (CRP) and Wetland Reserve (WRP) programs, and much more. A land agent is well versed in all of these with the knowledge to help you make the most of your purchase or sale.”

Sukraw also offers the following advice for those selling your farm:

1 AESTHETIC APPEAL. When selling your farm, drive toward and through your property, taking note of what you notice. Paint, make repairs, fix sagging fences, tighten gate hinges, clean out irrigation ditches and remove old farm machinery.

2 CUT & CLEAN. If you are selling vacant land or an unattended property, hire a crew to mow and clean up the property. This is one of the best and most cost-effective decisions you can make to easily improve your property.

3 KNOW THE MARKET. Consider altering your property to fit what people are looking for. Sustainable property is a popular term in buying and selling right now, keep in consideration the ability for crop rotation, tillable growth, energy source, and buildings to accommodate livestock and animals from natural elements.

4 WATER RIGHTS. From irrigation rights to domestic wells and surface water rights — in most cases, if you don't use it, you will lose it, so make sure your agent knows your intent of usage.

5 CONSIDER TIMING. The best possible prospect of selling a farm for maximum value is when the market demand is in full swing for the type of property being offered.