The Illinois Society of Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers presents our March 26-27, 2025, event at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Bloomington, IL, focusing on Illinois land values, market trends, and continuing education opportunities. (Advance registration for the RLI License course is required.)
Download the Land Values Conference PDF. Download the Continuing Education PDF.
Land Values Conference – March 27
What’s Happening with Land Prices?
The main conference runs Thursday, March 27, from 8:00-11:45 AM, featuring:
Opening Keynote: “The Economic Pulse of Agriculture”
David Kohl, Ph.D. – Professor Emeritus, Virginia Tech
Dr. Kohl will examine emerging trends and transitions in U.S. agriculture, offering insights into the future of the industry.
Section 180 Tax Deductions of Farmland
Alec Bean – CEO/Owner, Agricultural Soil Management
Learn strategies to maximize tax savings through residual fertility deductions and smart farmland investment strategies. This session covers implementation approaches for Section 180 on farmland purchases.
2025 Land Values Report Summary
Presented by:
- Luke Worrell – Worrell Land Services
- Gary Schnitkey, Ph.D. – University of Illinois
All attendees receive a complimentary copy of the 2025 Illinois Land Values and Lease Trends Report. Additional copies available on-site for $8 each or $240 per case (30 reports).
Attendance qualifies for 4 hours of ASFMRA CE credit.
Optional CE Courses – March 26
Property Taxes in Illinois (FI-1104)
- Time: 8:30 AM – Noon
- Cost: $80 (includes breaks and luncheon)
- Instructor: Norm Willoughby (563-001630) with guest speaker Bruce Sherrick, Ph.D., University of Illinois
Real estate licensees will gain essential knowledge of how property taxes are prepared, extended, billed, and collected in Illinois. This knowledge is crucial for professionals advising clients in property transactions and management.
Farm Brokerage in Illinois (FM-802)
- Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Cost: $80 (includes breaks and luncheon)
- Instructor: Norm Willoughby (563-001630)
This interactive course covers fundamental principles of farm brokerage and property management, including listing and selling farm properties, productivity assessment, lease termination, government programs, recreational opportunities, and current market trends. Learn how to protect landowner assets and navigate the nuances of this rewarding specialty.
Conference Pricing
- ASFMRA/RLI Members: $90
- Non-Members: $100
- CE Courses: $80 each
Accommodations
DoubleTree by Hilton Bloomington
10 Brickyard Drive
Bloomington, IL
Special conference rate: $139/night for both CE and conference dates
Call 309-664-6446 and mention “Land Values Conference”
Room block deadline: March 4, 2025
Important Dates
- Lodging Reservation Deadline: March 4, 2025
- CE Course Registration Deadline: March 18, 2025 (no registrations accepted after this date)