Why Do Comparable Sales Matter When Buying Farmland?

FBN Network

Mar 27, 2024

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Comparable sales can be a valuable tool for farmers when deciding whether or not to purchase an appealing farmland parcel.

Download the free guide Before You Buy: 4 Farmland Factors to Consider from FBN® Finance to learn more about how to use comparable sales data when determining whether to make a land purchase, or keep reading below to learn about interpreting comparable sales information.

Why Comparable Farmland Sales Matter

By analyzing recent comparable property sales, farmers may gain insights into the potential market value of similar land parcels in the local area. While land values are based on many different factors, this information offers farmers one way to help assess whether the asking price for the land they are interested in is reasonable and in alignment with market value.

Keep the following five important points in mind when interpreting comparable sale information.

1. Location

Ensure that the comparable sales are in the same or similar area as the land you’re considering for purchase. Land values can be influenced by multiple location-related factors, including:  

  • Proximity to markets

  • Local infrastructure

  • Nearby amenities

2. Size and Features

Look for comparable sales that have similar acreage and features to the land you are considering. This includes factors such as:

  • Soil quality

  • Topography

  • Access to water sources

  • Any improvements or structures on the land


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3. Timeframe

Note the timeframe of the comparable sales. Recent sales within the past year or two are generally more relevant and reflective of current market conditions than older purchases. 

4. Adjustments

Take into account any differences between the comparable sales and the land you are interested in. Adjustments may be necessary to account for variations in size, features, or other factors that could impact the value.

5. Price 

Comparable sales can provide a benchmark for price negotiations. If the asking price is significantly higher than the recent sales of similar properties, farmers may have room to negotiate a more favorable price.

Making a Final Farm Purchasing Decision

It's important to note that comparable sales should not be the sole determining factor in the decision-making process. Other factors should also be considered, such as your own financial position and the land’s: 

  • Agricultural potential

  • Soil quality

  • Access to water sources

  • Long-term investment value

Remember to independently verify the information and consult with professionals, such as appraisers or real estate agents, to ensure you make an informed decision regarding the land purchase.

4 Factors to Consider When Purchasing Farmland

To help farmers gain greater insight into the factors to assess when purchasing land, FBN Finance created the free guide Before You Buy: 4 Farmland Factors to Consider.

Whether you are looking into a farmland purchase for the first time or scaling your current ag operation, this short, downloadable guide will teach you how to determine property value.

Get Comparable Sale Information with AcreVision℠ from FBN

If you’re looking for comparable sale information before making a farmland purchase, FBN’s innovative evaluation tool includes insights to help you make an informed buying decision.

AcreVision, which is available for free to FBN members, is an farmland evaluation system designed to assist farmers in making informed decisions about potential land purchases by providing vital insights into specific farmland parcels. This information includes soil types, comparable sales, terrain information and other details. 

Try AcreVision for free today by clicking here. 


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FBN Network

Mar 27, 2024

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