Make Smarter Land Leasing & Cash Rent Decisions

Whether you’re a farmer renting ground, a landowner negotiating terms, or both, the right lease structure can make a big difference in your farm’s profitability and long-term business stability. Our leasing resources combine research-based insights, decision tools, and expert perspectives to help you evaluate and negotiate lease agreements that work for both parties.

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Getting Started

Leasing Land Fundamentals

Before you enter your next lease discussion, review:

  • Understanding the pros and cons of common leasing arrangements.

  • The role of market conditions and land values in cash rent negotiations.

  • Using flexible lease agreements to share risk and reward.

  • Aligning lease terms with your farm’s business strategy.

NEW 2025 Purdue Report

The survey shows Indiana land prices continue to rise and are anticipated to continue a modest increase for the rest of 2025 for most of the state. So what's that mean for you...

Flexible Cash Rent Leases

Flex leases combine a base rent with a possibility of a bonus, which is typically based on gross revenue triggers or gross revenue above production costs plus base rent. Flexible cash rent leases enable a landowner to share additional income that results from unexpected increases in crop prices and/or yields. For the operator, risk is reduced as cash rent is lower if crop prices and/or yields are less than normal.

Comparison of Net Returns for Flexible Cash Lease and Fixed Cash Rent Lease (per acre net returns for landowner)

Irrigated Ground, Pasture & Hay Leases

The Purdue Cash Rent and Land Value Survey has not included questions on irrigated, pasture or hay ground leases due to low response rates in Indiana, but there are ways to calculate lease rates for these based on the regional and state level dryland cropland values, as well as using USDA NASS information. We highlights terms related to the three P’s of irrigation: pivot, pump, and power; the big three in pasture: fencing, water supply, and controlling noxious weeds; as well as cow-calf pairs and hay cash rental calculations. Offering practical advice for both landlords and operators on fair rental agreements.