If you’re weighing AcreTrader versus FarmTogether, the right choice comes down to your priorities—deal flow, fees, crop type focus, or long-term return goals. Both offer viable farmland exposure, but they serve different investor profiles.
In this article, you’ll see a breakdown of how each platform works, what makes them distinct, and how to decide which aligns with your portfolio. By the end, you’ll have a clear, data-driven view to guide your investment decision.
What is AcreTrader, and how does it work?
AcreTrader is a farmland investing platform where you purchase fractional interests in farmland through an LLC structure. You commit capital, and AcreTrader handles management, leasing, and eventual sale of the land.
Most offerings focus on row crops like corn, soybeans, and wheat, along with timberland. The model is built on stability: long-term leases with farmers create predictable rental income, while appreciation builds over time.
This structure appeals if you want exposure to essential commodities with lower volatility than specialty crops. Investors often use AcreTrader to anchor farmland within a broader real asset allocation.
What is FarmTogether, and how does it work?
FarmTogether also offers fractional farmland ownership, but its structure and strategy differ. Along with individual deals, you can invest in its Sustainable Farmland Fund for diversified exposure across multiple farms.
The platform leans more toward permanent crops—almonds, pistachios, citrus—alongside select row crops. For larger investors, FarmTogether provides bespoke opportunities, including 1031-exchange options and sole-ownership deals.
If you want specialty agriculture exposure, FarmTogether may be a better fit. Permanent crops can deliver higher yields, but they carry different risks tied to climate, irrigation, and global demand cycles.
How do fees compare between AcreTrader and FarmTogether?
Fees directly impact your net returns, so clarity matters.
- AcreTrader charges around 0.75% annually in management or servicing fees, with a small disposition fee at sale. The structure is straightforward, which makes it easier to model outcomes.
- FarmTogether uses a layered structure: management fees (often 1%–2%), upfront structuring costs, and in some cases revenue-sharing on rental income or operating profits.
AcreTrader appeals to those who value transparent, predictable fees. FarmTogether’s structure may work if you’re comfortable with performance-based elements and accept some variability.
Which platform offers more frequent deals?
Deal flow impacts your ability to diversify over time.
AcreTrader lists more offerings on a regular basis, especially in row crops and timberland. According to multiple investor comparisons, AcreTrader has had far greater deal volume since 2022.
FarmTogether is more selective. Fewer offerings go live, but those that do often feature premium specialty crops. If you prefer a fund model, FarmTogether gives you exposure to multiple farms without waiting for individual listings.
How do return expectations differ?
Both platforms target mid-single to low-double-digit returns, but through different levers.
AcreTrader deals often project total returns in the 7%–9% range, combining steady rental income with appreciation. Stability is the appeal—row crops generate predictable lease revenue.
FarmTogether sometimes lists deals with projected returns as high as 6%–13% net IRR, particularly with specialty crops. These returns can be higher, but they rely on commodity cycles, export demand, and irrigation stability.
The key is to compare net IRR after fees. FarmTogether’s upside may be greater, but AcreTrader provides consistency.
What risks and liquidity limits should you know?
Neither platform offers liquidity. Your capital is typically tied up for 5–10+ years, until the property is sold. Secondary markets are limited or nonexistent.
You also assume agricultural risks: weather variability, commodity price swings, and changes in land values. While both platforms vet deals, farmland is still subject to cycles.
Community discussions often highlight accessibility concerns, too. Platforms may eventually tilt toward larger capital pools, making it harder for smaller investors to get allocations.
Which investors benefit most from each platform?
The right choice depends on your strategy and risk tolerance.
AcreTrader is often better if you:
- Value frequent deal flow
- Prefer row crop stability
- Want predictable, transparent fees
- Plan to allocate smaller amounts over time
FarmTogether fits if you:
- Want exposure to permanent crops or specialty agriculture
- Prefer a fund model for diversification
- Are open to performance-based returns
- Have larger capital allocations to deploy
You can also split your capital between both platforms to evaluate outcomes firsthand.
Key Differences Between AcreTrader vs FarmTogether
- AcreTrader: More frequent deals, row crop focus, 0.75% annual fee
- FarmTogether: Fewer deals, fund option, specialty crops, layered fees
Build Your Farmland Strategy with Confidence
Farmland investing offers stable, long-term exposure to a critical asset class, but the platform you choose shapes your experience. AcreTrader delivers predictability and deal volume. FarmTogether brings diversification and higher-yield potential through specialty crops. Align your choice with your capital size, fee tolerance, and appetite for variability. Start with one platform, measure results, and adjust future allocations accordingly.
If you’d like to explore more farmland investment strategies and see detailed comparisons of real asset opportunities, visit my profile for deeper resources and analysis.
Dax Cooke is the founder of Farmfolio, a Medellín-based agribusiness and farmland development company. With 10+ years across capital markets and agribusiness, he builds sustainable, cash-flowing farmland projects and export supply chains (coconut, lime, teak, avocado). A three-time NAIFA 40 Under 40 honoree, his career began at Citigroup’s Capital Markets.