Success begins with a written business plan

Taking a CEO mindset approach is becoming increasingly important in today’s real estate market. Whether you’re managing investment properties, developing land, or growing a real estate portfolio, treating your operation like a business creates a stronger foundation for long-term success.

That’s why having a clear vision, strategic direction, and the right tools in place is essential for sustainable growth and informed decision-making.

One of the most important steps? Creating a written business plan.

A well-developed business plan provides clarity, direction, and a roadmap for achieving long-term goals while helping navigate market changes and opportunities with confidence.

FARM CEO CHECKLIST

Focus on what matters most What do the most successful farms have in common? They prioritize these key tasks to reduce risk, capitalize on opportunities and build stable, profitable operations. Whether you’re already on track or just getting started, the Farm CEO Checklist will help you set goals, define a clear path and access the tools and resources to help you grow your business.

•  Have a written business plan

•  Work with a team of professional advisors

•  Have a written risk management plan

•  Have a written commodity marketing plan

•  Create a budget that’s reviewed regularly

•  Know your cost of production

•  Keep updated financial records and cash flow analysis

•  Have a written transition plan Take action today

•  Have a written and updated will (within 5 years)

•  Have a written and well-developed Human Resources plan

•  Use benchmarking and keep updated production records

•  Have a written technology modernization plan

•  Incorporate key performance indicators (KPI) in all business aspects