Farm Loan Guides

Plain-English guides to how farm financing works — from the main loan types to qualifying, documents, and refinancing. No sales pitches, just clear explanations, with the consistent reminder that terms vary by lender and program.

Types of Farm LoansA plain-English guide to the four main categories of agricultural financing and what each is used for.How to Qualify for a Farm LoanPractical steps borrowers can take to prepare a stronger farm loan application.Farm Loan Requirements: What Lenders Look ForThe criteria agricultural lenders use to evaluate a farm loan application.Documents You Need to ApplyA practical checklist of paperwork to gather before applying for farm financing.Farm Operating Loans ExplainedHow short-term operating financing supports a farm through its production cycle.Farm Equipment Financing ExplainedHow farmers finance machinery, and the loan-versus-lease decision.Farm Land & Real Estate LoansA guide to financing the purchase of farmland and other agricultural real estate.USDA Farm Loans: FSA ProgramsHow USDA Farm Service Agency loan programs are structured and who they aim to serve.Refinancing a Farm LoanWhen refinancing can help, what it can cost, and questions to weigh first.What Is Debt-Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR)?A clear explanation of DSCR and why it's central to most farm credit decisions.

Farm loans by state

State-by-state guides to how farm financing works, what lenders look at, and where to apply — with cited USDA land-value data.

Loan guides by situation

Financing guides for specific borrowers and operations — programs, what lenders weigh, and how to prepare.