Who Is Buying America’s Farmland? Expert Discusses Foreign Investment Trends

ASFMRA’s Troy Swee joins us to discuss farmland values, investor activity, rental market trends, and the factors shaping rural real estate markets in today’s agricultural economy.

BERESFORD, S.D. (RFD NEWS) — Lower commodity prices, tighter operating margins, and ongoing economic uncertainty are creating new dynamics in the farmland market as producers, landowners, and investors evaluate opportunities across rural America.

Accredited Farm Manager Troy Swee with the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA) joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to discuss the latest trends influencing farmland values, rental rates, and buyer activity.

In his interview with RFD News, Swee shared his perspective on investor interest in farmland, including the level of participation by out-of-state and foreign buyers and how that demand compares with local producers’ interest in today’s market. He also discussed recent movements in farmland values and whether the market is beginning to stabilize after several years of strong appreciation driven by high commodity prices and farm income.

The conversation examined the key factors considered when valuing agricultural land, including productivity, soil quality, location, drainage, local demand, and long-term income potential. In addition, Swee outlined the methods used to market farmland, including auctions and traditional listings, and discussed how sellers determine which approach is the best fit for a particular property.

Finally, he addressed cash rental trends, including whether weaker commodity prices have translated into lower rental rates and the lease structures most commonly being utilized by producers and landowners today.

LEARN MORE: www.asfmra.org

Related Stories
Rising costs are significantly extending walnut profitability timelines.
Michael Cliver discusses his recent visit to the White House with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, and the Trump Administration’s “Working Families Tax Cuts” impact on ranching families.
PLC and NCBA Chief Counsel Kaitlynn Glover reacts to the USDA’s new Grazing Action Plan, regulatory relief for ranchers, and the industry’s efforts to improve access to public lands.
On this week’s Rural Health Matters, Dr. Jeffrey Gold raises awareness about Parkinson’s disease, shares insights on early detection, and offers guidance for patients and families in rural communities.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Support policies that keep U.S. biofuels at the table—marine demand could materially lift corn grind, crush margins, and rural jobs.
FarmHER Katey Jo Evans joins us to share her journey from farm wife to entrepreneur and advocate for reducing food waste.
Industry leaders say $11 billion in new investments could turn the tide as dairy producers face shrinking margins and growing uncertainty.
Export Inspections In Bushels Show Mixed Momentum Patterns