Field Level Agriculture

Field Level Agriculture's proficiency in farm brokerage, management and appraisal is vividly illustrated by its impressive track record. Since 2021 Field Level Agricultures has conducted 22 auctions, encompassing 7,658 acres across Illinois, with a cumulative land value of $114.5 million. Distinct to the firm are its hybrid auctions, which include online and in-person events, providing buyers with a wider pool of investors while empowering prospective bidders with flexibility and the option for confidentiality.

Each of these auctions, meticulously orchestrated by Field Level Agriculture's brokers, is marked by an atmosphere of excitement, attracting enthusiastic bidders and farmland owners with the prospect of ownership opportunity. These events provide pivotal moments where aspirations for land ownership become a reality. The firm's brokers play a crucial role in auctions, leveraging their expertise to skillfully guide the process and ensure each piece of land is sold at a price that reflects its maximum potential.

Led by co-owners Seth Baker, Tom Courson, Josh Peak and Nick Suess, Field Level Agriculture is an independent agricultural services firm deeply rooted in a field-level understanding . Its comprehensive services are backed by the team’s extensive experience, giving clients the assurance and insight to make informed farmland investment decisions. Based in Illinois, a region synonymous with prime farmland, the company enhances property value for landowners through effective marketing strategies and a broad network of prospective buyers.

Peak elaborates on their approach, saying, “Our auctions feature in-person and online options to ensure broader bidder participation. Fueled by our passionate and helpful team, the energy in the room creates a competitive spirit that maximizes final sale prices.”

Field Level Agriculture’s strategy enables landowners to tap into a wider pool of bidders and investors. It also caters to buyers needing flexibility or seeking privacy by offering online bidding options. The company’s core mission is to provide customized services that enable landowners to achieve their goals of farmland ownership, with customer satisfaction and fulfillment pivotal to their success.

Comprehensive Services Elevating Farmland Ownership

Selling farmland presents a complex challenge, often resulting in landowners undervaluing their property and missing out on significant profit opportunities. This complication stems from the unique attributes of farmlands, which make accurate valuation arduous.

Field Level Agriculture offers a comprehensive solution to this challenge. Its team, which includes State-Certified General Appraisers, is adept at evaluating farmland properties, even in turbulent market conditions. It provides detailed, professional valuation reports, which are crucial for setting realistic expectations and making informed, optimal financial decisions. It also has experience handling complex 2032A Election appraisals for the IRS.

Following a client-centric approach, Field Level Agriculture guides landowners through the entire sales process. This includes determining the optimal selling price and overseeing the transaction through closing. Diverse marketing strategies include traditional and digital platforms, ensuring maximum exposure to potential buyers. Each farm tract is showcased in personalized brochures that highlight its distinct features. The Field Level team engages with potential buyers to maintain communication and interest.

Clients are kept up to date with regular updates and feedback on marketing strategies and market responses. Buyers are assisted in identifying farmland that meet their specific requirements and advised on securing advantageous deals.

Courson, president of farm management at Field Level Agriculture, says, “We always ensure clients stay informed throughout the process and understand our strategies to reach their goals and prospective buyers. This enables them to secure the best market price and meet their sales objectives.”

The analytical capabilities of the firm’s personnel are critical to client success. They constantly analyze and adjust their marketing campaigns, by identifying key market players and proactively engaging with them. This strategy also educates potential buyers on theire farmland offerings, bridging knowledge gaps and supporting inclusive decision-making.

Since farmland can be a rewarding asset for farmers and investors, Field Level Agriculture also offers farm management services, helping landowners optimize their resources and increase their farm’s productivity and profitability. This includes recommending and implementing lease terms, managing expenses, and maintaining the land's fertility and quality.
Field Level Agriculture consistently delivers results-oriented, professional services that enhance farmland ownership and guarantee client satisfaction. A comprehensive approach that promotes informed decision-making while maximizing value for landowners and investors.

From Collaborative Strategy to Client Success

Field Level Agriculture acknowledges that while planning is essential for any financial undertaking, execution makes all the difference. The firm exemplifies this belief by assisting clients by customizing their plans into action and successfully achieving their goals.

Field Level Ag understands that farmland owners are often uncertain about their needs, whether in farm management, appraisal or brokerage. Their experts initiate in-depth conversations to understand each client's goals and then tailor their approach and strategies to meet these requirements. When a decision is made to sell the farm, the hybrid auction approach stands out as popular and effective among the various farmland selling methods they offer. However, its seasoned professionals are adept at adjusting to alternate methods should clients prefer more control over the selling process.

After the client's objectives are determined, a customized farm-specific marketing strategy is devised, during which clients are informed about market trends and developments. A clear and well-structured plan is developed, forming the basis of a successful partnership and seamless collaboration.

This client-centric approach has been pivotal in helping clients gain a better understanding of their property rights and navigate the complexities of selling farmland.

For example, the firm had a client with a life estate in a property, which gave them the right to sell it. However, the client was unaware that authorization from certain beneficiaries was required. Field Level Agriculture’s brokers facilitated the approval process and ensured all the requisite documents were duly signed.

“From the initial conversation to closing, we provide comprehensive assistance to clients. We recognize that there are many hurdles to overcome, and we guide them through each step of the process,” says Peak.

Field Level Agriculture held an auction in Sangamon County and executed an extensive marketing strategy. Numerous potential bidders were contacted by direct mail with the propertys appraised value determined by the properties location and nearby landowners . This resulted in over 1,200 hits on and over 1,500 clicks on their website. Clients were also given regular updates regarding the bidders and their online participation. There was substantial in-person attendance on auction day. The property’s final selling price was $3,000 per acre higher than the appraised value, owing to Field Level Agriculture’s market knowledge and auction recommendation.

The firm is currently preparing for a farmland auction in Coles County and has promoted it by sending direct mailings to over 1,300 individuals. Its brokers curated this custom list based on the county’s farm ownership and property size. Field Level Agriculture expects significant attention, aiming to receive over 1,000 hits on their Facebook promotions. It also plans to advertise the property in newspapers and on its website.

Impressive results have been achieved with this approach, often exceeding client expectations and delivering exceptional results and client satisfaction.

Where Experience Meets Enthusiasm

Combining the expertise of its senior executives with the dynamic passion and drive of its young brokers enables Field Level Agriculture to effortlessly navigate the complexities of farmland brokerage.

Baker, the company's founder, and Courson have deep roots in agriculture in Central Illinois, with over two decades of professional experience in farmland valuation, acquisition and management. The team is comprised of carefully selected individuals who excel in their field and are keenly interested in agriculture. When faced with challenges, they rely on a collaborative culture to brainstorm ideas and utilize their collective strengths to provide optimal solutions. Its brokers are active members of the Realtors Land Institute, which keeps them abreast of the latest industry trends and developments.

Field Level Agriculture nurtures new brokers by pairing them with experienced team members for training. This approach equips them with invaluable insights into the nuances of the sales process. After participating in a sale or two and gaining confidence, they are encouraged to independently handle sales. Senior executives are always available as a support system, ready to assist brokers during each phase. This dedication to teamwork and knowledge sharing is the key to the firm’s success.

Field Level Agriculture harnesses its team’s experience and enthusiasm to conduct successful auctions. Each member plays a specific role, ensuring smooth coordination on every sale to achieve client satisfaction. The firm remains committed to maintaining this energy, even as it aims to expand its reach across Illinois and establish itself as the premier firm for farm brokerage services.