Finances

Local Highlights

December 11, 2012

AMES, Iowa — Average Iowa farmland value is estimated to be $8,296 per acre, an increase of 23.7 percent from 2011, according to results of the Iowa Land Value Survey conducted in November. This is the third year in a row where values have increased more than 15 percent. The 2012 values are historical peaks.

The increase is somewhat higher than results of other recent surveys of Iowa farmland value: the Chicago Federal Reserve Bank estimated an 18 percent increase in Iowa land values from October 2011 to October 2012 and the Iowa Chapter of the Realtors Land Institute estimated a 7.7 percent increase from March to September 2012.

Statewide Resources

  • Purchasing a home is probably the biggest purchase you'll ever make. Complete this online course to prepare yourself for buying a home and shopping for a mortgage that works for you!

  • Online resources to help improve financial wellbeing through education and counseling in the areas of homeownership, personal finance, and credit.

  • The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax preparation and electronic filing for low to moderate income Iowans.  Access income tax resources and find a VITA location near you.

  • A 24-hour resource for legal, finance, crisis and disaster issues, Iowa Concern provides access to an attorney for legal education, stress counselors, and information and referral services.

  • If you are looking for ways to improve your finances, this FREE online course is for you! Focused on managing money, the course also addresses dealing with debt, building financial security, and family communication about money.

  • Resources on farm management and finances.

  • RECAP provides data and research on local economic, demographic, and social trends for business and communities.

  • Sharpen your financial coaching skills during this 5-week face-to-face and online course designed to help non-profit organizations/groups assist clients/members with their financial management concerns.

  • Our family finance programs and resources can help you get more for your money, save for your financial goals, and help build your money management skills.

  • Whether you are just starting out or already well-established, smart financial management is a priority for almost everyone!  Join the conversation with your ideas and questions as our Family Finance specialists share tips and resources about making good financial decisions.

  • Get involved in an online learn-at-home or face-to-face course on money management designed for women of all ages. It will help you learn to take charge of your money!

  • Extension to Families is all over the social media networks. Stay in touch with us through our blogs, Facebook, and Twitter!

  • ISU Extension assists Iowa communities in planning and encouraging sustainable community and economic development that lead to positive quality of life for all citizens.

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