Real Estate Blogs

When managing an estate, an appraisal plays a vital role in determining the fair market value of assets such as real estate and farmland. This valuation is essential for ensuring accurate tax calculations, fair inheritance distribution, and legal compliance. Understanding the appraisals' purpose can help protect family wealth and simplify the estate planning process.

Midwest farmland values have long been a barometer of agricultural health, yet they are traditionally insulated from significant fluctuation caused by government policies or shifts in the general economy. As we move into 2025, many people believe that two government policies—tariffs and the recently enacted American Relief Act—are poised to influence these values in the near term. Here’s a quick look at how they might play out.

Congratulations to Peoples Company agents Matt Adams, Lindsey Brown, Steve Bruere, Adam Crist, Jake Sickels, and Travis Smock for each winning the coveted Land Star Top Producer Award in 2024! Their dedication and hard work haven't gone unnoticed, and this award is a well‑deserved recognition of their exceptional achievements in the land real estate market.

Timberland as an investment strategy offers a unique combination of long-term value, inflation resistance, and income generation. Unlike stocks or bonds, timberland provides returns through biological tree growth, land appreciation, and timber sales, making it an attractive option for diversification. Challenges include market volatility, environmental risks, and liquidity issues, requiring strategic investment planning.

When contemplating whether or not they are ready to sell a farm, one of the first questions a landowner will likely have is: “Should I list or auction my farm?” It’s a crucial decision that can significantly impact their financial future. As we close out 2024 and set our sights on 2025, understanding the pros and cons of each selling method is vital for making an informed choice. As a land professional that specializes in brokerage and auctions, I’m here to guide you through the options available, helping you determine the best path for your unique situation.

The Section 1031 like-kind exchange is a powerful tool used by business owners, investors and others to transition real property assets into new assets that may more appropriately meet their needs. When exchanges occur near year-end, the following exchange-related issues and planning matters should be kept in mind.

When it comes to selling land, particularly agricultural property, selecting the right brokerage can make all the difference in achieving your goals. While generalist or residential-focused brokerages might occasionally list farmland, partnering with a specialized agricultural brokerage like Peoples Company offers unparalleled advantages for landowners.

In the highly competitive real estate market, first impressions matter. With more buyers and investors turning to online platforms to discover properties, the visual presentation of a listing can make all the difference. High-quality imagery, mapping, and videography are no longer optional add-ons but essential tools for attracting potential buyers. These tools provide a deeper understanding of the property, build emotional connections, and ultimately drive faster and higher-value sales. Let’s explore how these elements work together to elevate real estate listings, especially when dealing with properties like farmland, large estates, or development tracts.

Are you considering investing in land for recreational purposes? Whether you're dreaming of a secluded hunting retreat, a serene fishing spot, or simply a piece of nature to call your own, purchasing recreational land can be a rewarding investment.

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.