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
Curing title defects in an agricultural context requires a blend of traditional real estate law and a deep understanding of rural land use history.
Senior exhibitor reflects on years of work in the ring and the bond that led to his first sale
After years of showing livestock, Gosda reflects on the bond and responsibility of taking care of her cattle
Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Michael Kelsey joined us to discuss wildfire impacts across the Southern Plains, the importance of community support, and the path forward for affected producers.

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:

AFBF Associate Economist Samantha Ayoub joins us to dive into H-2A visa program changes and what can be done to ease the pressure on producers.
As the government shutdown pushes the farm economy closer to the brink, Sens. Grassley and Ernst of Iowa are raising their voices for agriculture.
Dr. Jeffrey Gold discusses eye protection and injury prevention in everyday agricultural activities on Rural Health Matters.
RFD-TV farm legal and taxation expert, Roger McOwen, joins us with his perspective on what farmers can expect from the delayed aid package.
U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to share why Ames is uniquely positioned to support expanded USDA operations.