9 Things Every Landowner Must Do Before Renting Land

By Corbett Kull

It’s almost time for farmers and landlords to begin negotiating their leases for the 2020 growing season. With 40% of U.S. farmland rented, this market is worth $32 billion.

As you begin to consider the next growing season, you have the opportunity to make adjustments and gain new insight into the health of your land. To help you make the most of this time leading up to farmland lease termination dates, here are nine things you need to address ahead of the 2020 growing season:

1. DETERMINE YOUR LEASE TERMINATION DATE
Start thinking about your plans at least 30 to 60 days before the lease termination date in your state.

This may sound early, but it’s a good idea to give yourself a month or two of lead time to evaluate the rent you’re getting and what fair market value for 2020 will be. It’s also ample time to provide a termination notice if you want to make any changes.