The wealth that's been created in farming and the transfer that's coming is unprecedented, yet many farm families still put off crucial estate planning conversations. In this insightful discussion with senior wealth consultant Galen McGregor, we unpack the essential components of effective farm legacy planning and why it matters at every age – not just for the elderly.

Farm families face unique challenges when transitioning assets between generations. From deciding who gets which parcel of land to managing the delicate balance between fair and equal distribution among heirs, these decisions require thoughtful consideration. As Galen explains, "Once you have worked with one family, you've just worked with one family," because each situation demands customized solutions that honor both financial realities and family dynamics.

We explore the five core components every comprehensive estate plan should include: a last will and testament, financial power of attorney, healthcare power of attorney, living will, and potentially a revocable trust. Surprisingly, everyone needs the first four components by age 18 – something many farm families overlook until it's too late. The conversation also highlights practical strategies for asset protection, including structuring operations with separate LLCs for crops, machinery, and land to limit liability exposure.

Perhaps most compelling is Galen's emphasis on the non-financial aspects of legacy planning. Her recommendation to create a "letter of wishes" – a personal explanation of your estate decisions – can prevent misunderstandings and preserve family relationships after you're gone. As she puts it, "Sometimes it's not just money, but how do you want them to operate every day and treat others?" This perspective transforms estate planning from a purely financial exercise into a meaningful expression of your values and hopes for future generations.

Whether you're just starting your farming career or contemplating retirement, this conversation offers practical guidance for protecting what matters most – your land, your legacy, and your family's future. Take the first step today by writing down your three or four most important wishes for your farm's future.

Follow at www.americalandauctioneer.com and on Instagram & Facebook
Contact the team at Pifer's

The vibrant green landscape stretching across North Dakota this summer tells a remarkable story of agricultural transformation. What began as a potentially devastating drought has evolved into one of the most verdant growing seasons in recent memory, with implications reaching far beyond this year's harvest.

Jim Sabe and Daryl Lies take listeners on a journey across the state's diverse growing regions, from the unexpectedly lush Badlands to the thriving croplands of the north. "I've never seen the state this green besides probably 2013 or 14," Sabe remarks, highlighting how timely rainfall has dramatically altered production outlooks. The transformation is particularly striking in traditionally arid areas south of Bowman extending into South Dakota, where ranchers are harvesting second cuttings of hay – a rare occurrence that speaks to the exceptional moisture patterns.

This abundance brings both opportunity and challenge. While crops appear poised for excellent yields, with corn standing six to seven feet tall and canola fields described as "so thick you could roll across without touching ground," the persistent rainfall threatens harvest logistics. Some alfalfa has already been lost to excessive moisture, and concerns mount about field conditions as harvest season approaches. Meanwhile, commodity prices remain stubbornly low, creating a situation where bushel count becomes critical for profitability despite visually impressive fields.

The conversation extends beyond immediate growing conditions to examine shifting global agricultural markets. Drawing from his recent meetings with trade representatives in Washington DC, Ease offers valuable perspective on how China's declining population contrasts with India's growth, potentially requiring American producers to adapt their crop selections in coming years. "American agriculture being dependent on row crops in 10 years might not be the thing," he notes, suggesting pulse crops and protein production may offer better opportunities as global consumption patterns evolve.

Subscribe to hear more insights on agricultural markets, land values, and production trends from the experts who work directly with farmers and ranchers across the Northern Plains. Whether you're actively farming or simply interested in the forces shaping rural America, these conversations provide valuable perspective you won't find anywhere else.

Follow at www.americalandauctioneer.com and on Instagram & Facebook
Contact the team at Pifer's

The auction block comes alive across the Upper Midwest in this dynamic exploration of recent sales and upcoming opportunities with America's Land Auctioneer hosts Andy Mrnak and Jim Sabe.

In the rolling green landscapes of Buffalo Gap, South Dakota, and the bustling main street of Bowman, North Dakota, recent auctions have showcased everything from pristine farm equipment to collector-worthy vehicles. A 2014 John Deere tractor with low hours commanded $67,000, while classic car enthusiasts drove bidding to $44,500 for a 2008 Shelby Mustang GT500 with just 2,050 miles. Perhaps most heartwarming was the donation auction of a 2015 Tiffin motor coach that brought $172,500 for the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame, with bidders flying in from as far as Michigan.

The hosts provide valuable market insights throughout - front-wheel assist tractors and four-wheel drives maintain strong values, while the once-hot market for "square body" Chevy pickups shows signs of cooling as more inventory becomes available. Clean, well-maintained equipment stored indoors consistently outperforms similar aged machinery with weather damage, underscoring the importance of proper care for maximum return.

For landowners considering selling, the conversation shifts to strategic auction planning, with fall (September-December) and spring (February-June) identified as prime selling seasons. The upcoming 20th anniversary Western Dakota Land Auction takes center stage as a premier multi-day event bringing together sellers and qualified buyers from across the country, particularly for properties with valuable water features.

Whether you're looking to turn equipment into cash, transition farmland to new ownership, or simply understand current market conditions, this episode provides a comprehensive roadmap through today's agricultural auction landscape. Ready to explore your options? Contact the Pfeiffer's team and discover why timing, presentation, and working with experienced auction professionals can make all the difference in achieving your goals.

Follow at www.americalandauctioneer.com and on Instagram & Facebook
Contact the team at Pifer's

When a small town decides to dream big, extraordinary things happen. The Dakota Territory Car Club's annual car show and auction in Bowman, North Dakota proves that community spirit combined with passion can create something magical that brings people together from hundreds of miles away.

What makes this event remarkable isn't just the 300+ meticulously maintained classics lining Main Street (though they're certainly impressive). It's the deliberate commitment to keeping everything accessible to everyone. Unlike most events of this caliber, everything here is completely free—from the professional concerts featuring tribute bands like 60s Mania and the East Coast's premier Bon Jovi tribute act, to the axe throwing station, bouncy houses, and kids' activities. The only things you'll pay for are food from the diverse vendors and any beverages you might want.

Behind this generosity stands a car club with 46 years of history and a dedication to service that extends far beyond vehicles. Throughout the year, these same members organize benefits for neighbors facing medical challenges, help neighboring towns with their events, and volunteer wherever needed. As Ryan Shear explained, "We're not just your average car club. We try to be more community oriented." This spirit attracts sponsors from across the tri-state area and as far away as Chicago, all eager to support an event that brings such joy to so many.

The Paul Mossberger Memorial Best of Show Award exemplifies this community-centered approach—honoring a beloved local resident known for always being the first to help others, with his brothers selecting each year's winning vehicle. The winning car then becomes immortalized on the following year's event t-shirts, keeping Paul's memory alive in a uniquely meaningful way.

Whether you're a car enthusiast, a family looking for affordable entertainment, or someone who simply believes in the power of community, mark your calendar for next year's event. Where else can you experience world-class cars, free concerts, and the warmth of genuine small-town hospitality all in one unforgettable day?

Follow at www.americalandauctioneer.com and on Instagram & Facebook
Contact the team at Pifer's

Navigating the complex world of taxes isn't just for accountants—it's essential knowledge for every landowner, farmer, and small business operator wanting to protect their hard-earned assets. In this illuminating conversation, host Steve Link welcomes tax expert Kent Busick from Busick Associates, who breaks down the recently passed "Big Beautiful Bill" and what it means for your bottom line.

Kent brings a unique perspective to tax planning, having grown up on a North Dakota grain farm before obtaining his master's in business taxation from the Carlson School of Management. This blend of practical agricultural knowledge and technical expertise allows him to translate complex tax provisions into strategies that real farmers and landowners can implement immediately.

The discussion reveals several game-changing opportunities hiding in the tax code. The restoration of 100% bonus depreciation, the increase in Qualified Business Income exclusion from 20% to 23%, and the often-overlooked Section 180 soil study deductions all represent substantial tax savings. As Kent explains, "If you're making a million dollars in your operation... that's a $30,000 deduction for you that just comes off of your adjusted gross income."

Perhaps most valuable is Kent's insight into permanent versus temporary tax deductions. While depreciation on equipment must eventually be recaptured, Section 180 deductions for soil nutrients create permanent tax benefits that never need to be recaptured when passing land to the next generation. Combined with the $15 million estate tax exclusion ($30 million for married couples) and unchanged stepped-up basis rules, farmers now have unprecedented tools for transitioning operations without crippling tax consequences.

Whether you're contemplating land improvements, equipment purchases, or retirement planning through Cash Balance Pension Plans, this episode delivers actionable wisdom that could save you thousands in taxes while building generational wealth. Listen now to discover how the right tax strategy can transform your financial future.

Follow at www.americalandauctioneer.com and on Instagram & Facebook
Contact the team at Pifer's

The summer growing season is well underway across the upper Midwest, and the team at America's Land Auctioneer has been traversing North Dakota and Minnesota to check crop conditions firsthand. Host Jack Pifer welcomes Kevin Pifer and land manager Tyler Burby to share their observations from recent field tours, where timely rains have created promising conditions despite early season challenges from windstorms.

What emerges throughout their conversation is a fascinating glimpse into the interconnected world of agricultural land markets, auction methodologies, and the unique culture that surrounds rural America. Tyler reports that while corn and soybeans started slower than usual, the recent heat has accelerated growth dramatically. The crops' resilience mirrors the adaptability of the auction industry itself, which continues to evolve in response to technological change.

Kevin offers a passionate defense of live auctions in an era when many competitors have moved entirely online. "The online is the end of the line for an auction company," he asserts, explaining that a good auctioneer can add $300-400 per acre to farmland values. Data from Pifer's recent sales supports this approach – while 51% of their sales now come from online bidders, the remaining 49% represents in-person buyers who value the traditional auction experience. This hybrid model, combining live auctioneers with simultaneous online bidding platforms, has become Pifer's signature approach.

The conversation takes an unexpected detour into coffee culture when Kevin and Tyler share insights from their visit to Alley Beans, a specialty coffee roastery in Valley City. The parallels between carefully sourced coffee beans and meticulously marketed farmland aren't lost on the team, who appreciate the craftsmanship behind both. Tyler even cites research suggesting regular coffee drinkers may live 19% longer, adding scientific weight to their morning ritual.

Looking ahead, the fall auction calendar is filling rapidly, with the Western Dakota Land Auction Event anchoring October's offerings and eight significant auctions already scheduled for September 22-24 alone. As Kevin predicts Federal Reserve interest rate cuts by year-end, the stage seems set for increased agricultural investment opportunities. For farmers, investors, and land enthusiasts alike, this episode offers valuable insights into where the market is heading and why the human element remains irreplaceable in land transactions.

Follow at www.americalandauctioneer.com and on Instagram & Facebook
Contact the team at Pifer's

Halfway through 2025, the agricultural land market across the upper Midwest demonstrates remarkable stability despite economic headwinds that might suggest otherwise. This mid-year analysis reveals how 150 parcels representing 35,000 acres have sold at an average of $4,300 per acre—maintaining the strength shown throughout 2024 when many expected a downturn.

The regional variations tell a fascinating story of American farmland values. Premium Red River Valley parcels command up to $12,000 per tillable acre while challenging properties bring $3,000 an acre in the same general vicinity. What factors create this dramatic price spectrum within seemingly similar geographies? Our experts break down how soil types, drainage patterns, productivity history, and even micro-climate conditions impact valuation in ways casual observers might miss.

Perhaps the most surprising market development comes from western ranch country, where grassland values have surged 10-15%. With cattle markets reaching historical highs, grazing properties that historically fetched $1,200-1,400 per acre now regularly exceed $1,800. This demonstrates agriculture's cyclical nature—as row crop economics face pressure, livestock operations gain purchasing power.

The psychological impact of weather continues to drive market sentiment. A significant drought buster in mid-May transformed western Dakota auction results almost overnight, highlighting how precipitation patterns remain the ultimate market mover in agricultural communities. While modern farmers deploy sophisticated technology and financial instruments, Mother Nature still holds the ultimate leverage.

The buyer pool has evolved since the frenzied markets of recent years. While attendance remains robust, active bidders have decreased from 20-25 per auction to single digits in many cases. Online participation continues to strengthen, and investor presence has increased compared to 2022-23. Yet the fundamental driver remains constant—quality land commands premium prices from buyers who recognize its long-term value.

Looking toward the second half of 2025, several extraordinary properties are coming to market, including Black Hills parcels with direct views of Mount Rushmore and bordering Custer State Park. Visit piperscom to explore these opportunities and subscribe to our podcast for continued market insights from America's Land Auctioneer.

Follow at www.americalandauctioneer.com and on Instagram & Facebook
Contact the team at Pifer's

The hidden world of agricultural land management takes center stage as Morgan Ulmer, a seasoned land manager with Pifer's, pulls back the curtain on what happens after the seeds go into the ground. Racing from field to field across the entire Red River Valley, Morgan reveals how professional land managers become the eyes and ears for property owners who may live hundreds or thousands of miles from their agricultural investments.

Morgan walks us through the meticulous process of field inspection—checking everything from water issues and weed pressure to crop health and projected yields. These detailed assessments, complete with extensive photography and documentation, ultimately form the backbone of comprehensive reports that keep landowners connected to their investments. "We have boots on the ground," Morgan explains, highlighting how land managers provide crucial peace of mind for distant property owners including trusts, family inheritances split between siblings, and investment groups.

The conversation takes a sobering turn as Morgan describes the aftermath of recent catastrophic straight-line winds that devastated farms across portions of North Dakota. Machine sheds destroyed, grain bins toppled, and power poles snapped "like matchsticks" serve as stark reminders of agriculture's vulnerability to nature's fury. Yet through it all, Morgan notes the remarkable resilience of the farming community: "They're resilient people... they don't miss a beat" when it comes to cleanup and recovery efforts.

The episode offers fascinating glimpses into the technological evolution of land management, from smartphone apps that estimate corn yields by photographing cobs to the game-changing deployment of drones for aerial inspection of difficult terrain. We also hear how land managers contribute valuable regional data to industry organizations like the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers, helping establish crucial benchmarks for rental rates and agricultural trends across the region.

Whether you're a landowner seeking better oversight of your agricultural investments, a farmer curious about professional management services, or simply interested in the behind-the-scenes work that supports modern agriculture, this episode delivers valuable insights into the vital role land managers play in protecting and optimizing one of our most precious resources.

Follow at www.americalandauctioneer.com and on Instagram & Facebook
Contact the team at Pifer's