Blogs by Andrew Zellmer, ALC

September 26, 2024

Alligator Hunting in Louisiana

Alligator hunting in Louisiana is deeply rooted in the culture, history, and ecology of the state. Louisiana’s winding bayous/rivers, sprawling marshlands, and expansive timber tracts offer the largest selection of hunting experiences in the United States, drawing hunters from around the world who seek the adventure of hunting numerous different animals and species. Alligator hunting is probably the most unique and thrilling hunting experience offered in the boot state.
September 25, 2024

The Power of Networking

Go, Dog. Go! This classic children’s book written by P.D. Eastman was my daughter’s favorite book. She loved the pictures of colorful dogs franticly racing from one place to another, seemingly without any purpose. Some days a career in rural appraisal can feel very similar. Running from property inspections, market research, meetings, classes, verifying sales, and writing appraisal reports, can make it feel like we are running in circles.
September 3, 2024

Land Auction Results | August 2024

The appraisal team at Peoples Company was able to track 52 tracts or 5,039 acres sold at public auction in Iowa during August 2024. The average dollar per acre was $13,134, the average dollar per tillable acre was $14,862, and the average dollar per CSR2 was $181.
August 5, 2024

Land Auction Results | July 2024

The appraisal team at Peoples Company was able to track 35 tracts or 2,754 acres sold at public auction in Iowa during July 2024. The average dollar per acre was $10,669, the average dollar per tillable acre was $13,495, and the average dollar per CSR2 was $178.
July 29, 2024

Louisiana Rice Production

Rice production in Louisiana is a story woven deep into the fabric of the state's history, stretching back centuries and shaped by a tapestry of cultures, innovations, and challenges. The roots of Louisiana rice production can be traced back to the early 18th century when French colonists first introduced rice cultivation to the region. Inspired by the rice-growing traditions of West Africa, these settlers recognized the fertile soil, abundance of fresh water, and favorable climate as ideal for cultivating this staple crop.
July 29, 2024

Understanding Agricultural Appraisal in Lending: Ensuring Sustainable Financing for Farmers

In the realm of agricultural lending, the process of appraisal holds significant weight. It's not just about assessing the monetary value of land and assets; it's about understanding the intricacies of farming practices, environmental impacts, and the overall sustainability of agricultural operations. Agricultural appraisal ensures that lenders can make informed decisions while offering financial support to farmers, fostering growth in rural economies, and ensuring food security.
July 2, 2024

Iowa Land Values Update | 2024 Quarter 2

Peoples Company tracks agricultural auctions across the state of Iowa. From this data, we calculate the average dollar per CSR2 point ($/CSR2) for sales of tracts with greater than 85% tillable land. Additionally, these tracts are largely unimproved or include minimal improvement contribution.
July 2, 2024

Land Auction Results | June 2024

The appraisal team at Peoples Company was able to track 87 tracts or 7,243 acres sold at public auction in Iowa during June 2024. The average dollar per acre was $11,298, the average dollar per tillable acre was $13,538, and the average dollar per CSR2 was $168.

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June 5, 2024

Land Auction Results | May 2024

The appraisal team at Peoples Company was able to track 37 tracts or 3,711 acres sold at public auction in Iowa during May 2024. The average dollar per acre was $11,238, the average dollar per tillable acre was $12,604, and the average dollar per CSR2 was $165.
May 6, 2024

Land Auction Results | April 2024

The appraisal team at Peoples Company was able to track 50 tracts or 3,514.48 acres sold at public auction in Iowa during April 2024. The average dollar per acre was $10,852, the average dollar per tillable acre was $13,624, and the average dollar per CSR2 was $181.
May 2, 2024

Deciphering the Dynamics of the Midwest Land Market

At Peoples Company, the question that is heard daily up and down the halls is a simple yet pivotal one: “What is happening in the land market?” In recent years, the answer has been straightforward - an upward trajectory.
April 4, 2024

Iowa Land Values Update - 2024 Quarter 1

Peoples Company tracks agricultural auctions across the state of Iowa. From this data, we calculate the average dollar per CSR2 point ($/CSR2) for sales of tracts with greater than 85% tillable land. Additionally, these tracts are largely unimproved or include minimal improvement contribution.
April 2, 2024

Land Auction Results - March 2024

The appraisal team at Peoples Company was able to track 82 tracts or 6,803.16 acres sold at public auction in Iowa during March 2024. The average dollar per acre was $11,316, the average dollar per tillable acre was $13,574, and the average dollar per CSR2 was $174.
March 4, 2024

Land Auction Results - February 2024

The appraisal team at Peoples Company was able to track 85 tracts or 7,064.51 acres sold at public auction in Iowa during February 2024. The average dollar per acre was $13,389, the average dollar per tillable acre was $14,935, and the average dollar per CSR2 was $185.
February 6, 2024

Land Auction Results - January 2024

The appraisal team at Peoples Company was able to track 40 tracts or 3,868.91 acres sold at public auction in Iowa during January 2024. The average dollar per acre was $12,060, the average dollar per tillable acre was $14,071, and the average dollar per CSR2 was $183.
January 5, 2024

Iowa Land Values Update - 2023 Quarter 4

Peoples Company tracks agricultural auctions across the state of Iowa. From this data, we calculate the average dollar per CSR2 point ($/CSR2) for sales of tracts with greater than 85% tillable land. Additionally, these tracts are largely unimproved or include minimal improvement contribution.
January 4, 2024

Land Auction Results - December 2023

The appraisal team at Peoples Company was able to track 94 tracts or 9,929.61 acres sold at public auction in Iowa during December 2023. The average dollar per acre was $12,104, the average dollar per tillable acre was $14,085, and the average dollar per CSR2 was $180.
December 7, 2023

Choosing a Certified General Appraiser or a Realtor for Your Property Appraisal: Which One is Right for You?

When it comes to determining the value of your property, whether for buying, selling, refinancing, or other purposes, it's crucial to rely on the expertise of a qualified professional. Two common choices for property appraisal are certified appraisers and real estate agents or brokers. While both can provide valuable insights, there are key differences between the two.
December 4, 2023

Land Auction Results - November 2023

The appraisal team at Peoples Company was able to track 255 tracts or 23,230 acres sold at public auction in Iowa during November 2023. The average dollar per acre was $12,018, the average dollar per tillable acre was $14,124, and the average dollar per CSR2 was $181.
November 20, 2023

Weekly Auction Results: 11/12/23-11/18/23

As harvest across the Midwest is wrapping up, the seasonal auction sales are officially in full swing. In Iowa, our appraisal team was able to track over 7,800 acres sold in 89 tracts. The average dollar per acre was $13,043, average dollar per tillable acre was $14,423 with an average dollar per CSR2 point of $178. This is down 2% from the Q3 average. Illinois had a rally, too, with 1,830 acres selling in 24 tracts at an average dollar per acre of $15,281.