Appraisal Services: Frequently Asked Questions

An agricultural appraisal is an unbiased, professional opinion of the market value of a property used for agricultural purposes. This can include cropland, pasture, recreation, farmsteads, and more. The appraisal is typically used for decision-making related to estate planning, sales, legal matters, or finances.

Appraisals are commonly needed for estate planning or settlement, gifting, financial reporting, loan collateral, buying or selling land, litigation, or dividing property among family members or co-owners.

We appraise a wide range of rural property types, including row crop farms, pastureland, recreational land, farmsteads, and more complex operations like confined livestock facilities, grain storage sites, or irrigated farmland.

Value is determined by analyzing recent sales of comparable properties, reviewing income potential, and considering local land market trends. Our appraisers use industry-standard valuation methods including the sales comparison approach, income approach, and cost approach when appropriate.

Unlike residential appraisals, farm appraisals must account for unique factors like soil productivity, land use, and various types of improvements. Farm properties are also often valued using income-based models that reflect agricultural profitability.

Typical information includes property location, legal descriptions, current use, ownership history, existing leases, recent improvements, and any special considerations (e.g., conservation easements or zoning restrictions). Our team will guide you through what’s needed.

Most appraisals are completed within 2–4 weeks from the time of inspection, though this can vary based on property complexity, location, and availability of data. We’ll provide a realistic timeline at the start of the project.

Yes, and we often encourage it—especially if you can provide insights into the property’s history, improvements, or unique features. That said, your presence is not required, and the inspection can be done independently.

Our appraisers combine boots-on-the-ground agricultural experience with deep market knowledge and professional credentials. We understand both the economic and emotional value of farmland, and we tailor our work to serve your unique goals with integrity and accuracy.

Yes. We frequently collaborate with legal and financial professionals on matters related to estate planning, trusts, ownership transitions, litigation, and tax reporting. We’re happy to be part of your advisory team.

Absolutely. Many clients request appraisals simply to understand their land’s current market value or to prepare for future decisions involving family planning, financial strategy, or long-term land use.

Yes. Our appraisers are certified and licensed, and many hold advanced designations through the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA). They also have real-world ag backgrounds and ongoing training specific to agricultural valuation.

Yes. We often provide appraisals to support equitable division of jointly owned land. This may involve valuing the entire parcel and its individual components to guide fair distribution or sale of shares.

Yes. Our appraisers are experienced in valuing entire agricultural operations, including homes, outbuildings, storage facilities, and site improvements. We’ll provide both total value and breakdowns if needed.

If you're not ready for a full appraisal, we can sometimes provide a market analysis through our real estate team. However, a formal appraisal offers a more detailed and defensible valuation. We’ll help you determine which option best fits your needs.

Costs vary depending on the size, complexity, and location of the property. We’ll provide a quote after having a chance to review the project.

Yes. Our appraisals are performed in compliance with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) and are commonly accepted by courts, the IRS, lenders, and legal professionals.

Yes. Our experienced team has provided expert testimony in legal proceedings, including estate disputes, eminent domain cases, and other land valuation matters.