Farmland Auction Results Shape Cash Rent Dynamics for Tenants and Landlords in Des Moines County

A 49.7-acre tillable farm in Des Moines County sold in April 2026 for $6,450 per acre with a CSR2 rating of 73, according to auction records. This transaction, alongside other February 2026 results for CRP and mixed-use properties, shows how sale prices sit relative to the county average farmland value of $7,244 per acre and average cash rent of $211 per acre.

Auction Trends Inform Rental Expectations

February 2026 auction results in Des Moines County included CRP and mixed-use properties that traded at moderate per-acre levels compared to prime tillable land. These outcomes provide landlords with benchmarks for setting cash rents while giving tenants data on what comparable parcels command in the current market. Statewide data from the same period noted multiple reported transactions in the county, reflecting consistent buyer participation that sustains activity for both owners seeking to lease and operators looking for ground.

Comparing Recent Sales to Cash Rent Benchmarks

Des Moines County’s average farmland value stands at $7,244 per acre with an average cash rent of $211 per acre. A 69.83-acre tillable farm sold on February 7, 2024, for $14,150 per acre, totaling $988,094.50 with a CSR2 of 69.83. These figures allow landlords to gauge returns from cash rent against sale prices while tenants evaluate lease costs against productivity ratings such as CSR2 values seen in the April 2026 and earlier transactions.

The gap between prime tillable sale prices and moderate results for other property types influences how landlords structure rental agreements and how tenants assess affordability of available acres. Consistent transaction volume supports ongoing lease negotiations without requiring parties to rely on isolated data points.

Practical Steps for Lease Decisions

Landlords and tenants can review county auction summaries to align cash rent terms with recent per-acre outcomes and CSR2 ratings. Monitoring participation levels in upcoming sales helps both sides adjust expectations for lease renewals based on observed market activity rather than speculation.

This article is general information only and is not personal financial or investment advice. Consider your own circumstances and seek licensed professional advice before making financial decisions.