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
South Texas farmers face worsening drought as Mexico falls short on water payments, leaving producers struggling for irrigation under the 1944 treaty.
Rodeo Austin exhibitor reflects on years of showing and the routines that get her ready for the ring.
SoilView’s Chris Nelson explains why soil testing is essential, how it enhances nutrient management, and why growers should focus on data-driven strategies to guide planting and fertilization this year.
Corn Refiners Association VP Kristy Goodfellow offered insight into the Feeding the Economy Report’s key findings, showing the breadth of agriculture’s economic impact and the challenges ahead.

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:

Large animal veterinarian Dr. Rosalyn Biggs with Oklahoma State University warns producers may not be prepared for the real threat of New World Screwworm.
We spotlight a student from Illinois who is helping to launch a middle school chapter and teaching younger students about the impact of agriculture in their communities.
FarmHER Annaliese Wegner joined us to dish about her episode of Dirt Diaries, talk about her own podcast, and other exciting moments ahead for Ag’s Most Okayest Farm Girls.
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.