Are You Purchasing Farmland You Can't Afford?

If you’re part of the first or second generation in farming, you probably understand the deep connection to the land. It’s more than just dirt—it represents your legacy and your family’s future. So, when a piece of ground comes up for sale, especially if it’s right next to your operation, it’s hard to resist. I’ve seen it time and time again: the urge to buy land, even when the finances don’t quite add up.

It’s tempting to justify the purchase, thinking, “We’ll figure it out,” or “This land will pay off for future generations.” Contrary to popular belief, when this happens it’s not just about owning more property. For many farmers, the vision extends far beyond the present—they see their kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids working on that same land decades down the road. Being the generation that secures that legacy feels important, but in today’s agricultural environment, that dream comes with serious financial challenges.

The reality is, that buying land today is far more difficult than it was for previous generations. Interest rates are high, land values have skyrocketed, and inflation over the past decade has made everything more expensive. For many first and second-generation farmers, taking on the financial burden of purchasing more land simply isn’t possible.

And while the emotional pull to own more land is strong, it’s important to step back and think practically. Will this purchase benefit your operation, or will it stretch you too thin? Are you making a decision based on the desire to expand, or out of the pressure to maintain a family legacy?

In today’s ag environment, it’s crucial to ask yourself these hard questions before making such a big financial commitment. Yes, owning more land might feel like the right thing for future generations, but you also need to make sure you’re setting up your operation—and your family—for financial success, not stress.

So, before you let the emotional attachment to the land drive your decision, weigh the financial realities. Ask yourself: is it truly worth the strain?