So you want to be a farmer? Or you want to farm more land? If you answer in the affirmative to these questions, you’re not alone. For generations, Iowans have felt the pull of the land. To pursue that noble calling, much is required. Of the requirements that farming entails, perhaps none is more crucial and challenging than land acquisition. From land scarcity to potentially high purchase price to operational expenses, there is a great deal that is baked into the process that makes it a unique challenge. As a farmer and prospective land-buyer, there are some steps you can take to make things go smoother.

Ask a farmer

Is there a better resource than experience? Probably not when it comes to this industry. If you don't have years in the ag industry, look to someone who does. You may be fortunate enough to come from a farming family or have a close friend in the business. Don't be afraid to tap that experience when it comes to land acquisition. If they've been through it, they'll understand the need for a sounding board.

Ask a friend of the farmer

Talk to someone who’s done business with farmers for decades: a banker, a real estate agent, a service extension agent. Central Bank is an Iowa community bank, with roots going back to 1887. You could put us in this friend category as a lender offering farm real estate loans, operating loans, installment loans and facility financing among our product lines. You might also consider talking to a buyer's real estate agent. Having an agent with local knowledge and knowledge of the process can be helpful in property research and selection, making an offer, and closing details. Another friend is your local Farm Service Agency (FSA).

Find a program

FSA, an arm of the USDA, can be helpful in evaluating the value and productivity of property and in determining if you qualify for any special farm financing programs which they administer or facilitate through a lender.  As an example, the FSA offers special financing programs for first-time farmers. Many government-backed programs are facilitated by the FSA but might be administered through a lender like Central Bank. In many cases, these programs operate in the same way well-known mortgage programs like FHA operate, offering assistance for buyers in special situations.

Make a checklist

As you enter into the stage where you'll be acquiring land, consider:

• Know your lender. Find a partner with local knowledge and specific ag experience.
• Know your land. Make sure you're familiar not only with the confirmed acreage, but also the soil. How does it rate on productivity factors (e.g. tillable)? Are there areas that can be reclaimed for farming? Drainage? Assets (bins, sheds) included in the sale?
• Know your plan for offer. This includes:
  • Knowing the seller's agent
  • Knowing the sale's details (see above)
  • Insurance. You'll need it, so talk to an agent beforehand.
  • Operating costs. In determining a budget for purchase, this will factor in.

If you’re seeking information on specific government programs for farmers, a valuable online resource, and source-material for some of this post, can be found at www.fsa.usda.gov/ia.