Category: Learn

Buying a Farm in Ontario? Why a Specialized Agent is Non-Negotiable

You’re not just buying a piece of land with a house on it. You’re buying a business, a legacy, and a complex biological and financial asset. It’s a decision measured in acres and generations, and the single most important question isn’t about price per acre—it’s about who is guiding you through the purchase. Choosing between […]

The Complete Checklist for Buying a Hobby Farm in Ontario

Buying a hobby farm isn’t just a real estate transaction; it’s the purchase of a new lifestyle. It’s a dream of muddy boots, fresh air, and a deeper connection to the land. But turning that dream into a successful reality requires a different kind of due diligence. Unlike a typical home purchase, you’re evaluating not […]

Commercial Farm vs. Rural Estate: Choosing the Right Property for Your Ontario Dreams

The dream of owning land in Ontario is a powerful one. For some, it’s the vision of a thriving agricultural business—rows of corn stretching to the horizon or a state-of-the-art dairy operation buzzing with activity. For others, it’s the promise of a peaceful country lifestyle—a rambling farmhouse, a few acres for horses, and a garden […]

Farm Appraisal vs. Market Analysis: What’s the Best Valuation Method When Selling Your Ontario Farm?

If you’re thinking about selling your farm, one question likely stands out above all others: “What is it actually worth?” It’s a question that carries the weight of years of hard work, investment, and family history. Get it right, and you secure your future. Get it wrong, and you risk leaving a significant amount of […]

Boosting Canada’s agricultural productivity through investment and innovation

Canada’s agricultural sector stands at a pivotal moment, as global food demand intensifies, profit margins tighten and climate pressures mount. Ag tech innovation offers a powerful solution, but research alone isn’t enough. We must accelerate commercialization of these technologies and create an investment environment that attracts venture capital. Innovation, boldness and ambition are urgently needed. […]

Agritourism Ontario partners with WSPS to strengthen farm safety

Agritourism Ontario has announced a new partnership with Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS), an Ontario-based health and safety association. The collaboration is rooted in a shared commitment to fostering a safer environment in Ontario’s growing agritourism sector. As a result, WSPS and Agritourism Ontario will work together to raise awareness, share resources, and address […]

Grow community connections, overcome isolation

As farms grow and rural lifestyles continue to change, maintaining a sense of community is an integral part of supporting your mental health. The importance of connection Humans are wired for connection, and farm operators are no exception. Bonnie Taylor, a registered social worker and psychotherapist based in Kitchener, Ont., says humans are wired for connection, […]

Family Farm Transition – Is Fair Always Equal?

We asked Rick Van Beselaere, a partner with the Regina-based law firm Miller Thomson LLP. With more than 30 years of experience in banking and finance, Rick shares his insights on farm succession planning. Does fair always mean equal? Rick: Many people assume that being fair to their children means treating them equally. This often […]

Canadian Crop Outlook 2025: Prices, Yields, and Producer Margins

Over the past six months, grain and oilseed producers have faced a mix of challenges and opportunities. Global supply chain news, shifting U.S. trade policies, and unpredictable weather all played a role. Yet, prices have generally been stronger than expected. Since January’s outlook, crop margins have improved, although for many producers they remain close to […]

Second farm, distant location. Can it be done?

The following fictional case study was created by BDO. Brian and Louise knew from an early age that their children, Isaac and Emma, aspired to be the seventh generation of their family to farm. They also knew the existing operation was not large enough to support three families if both children chose to farm full time. […]