A Clear, Thoughtful Approach to Farmland Auctions

by | Jan 19, 2026 | Wingert Insights

For many landowners, choosing to sell land at auction comes after careful consideration. It’s not just about timing or price—it’s about feeling confident in the process and comfortable with how decisions are made along the way.

That’s why our auction approach is built around clarity and transparency, from the first bid to the final result.

At Wingert Land Services, we use our in-house auction platform, ClearBid, to create an environment where bidders understand exactly what’s happening and landowners can feel confident in how their land is being offered to the market.

ClearBid is designed to remove uncertainty and allow the auction to unfold at a steady, thoughtful pace.

  • Bidder names are shown throughout the auction
    Each bidder is clearly identified, whether they are in the room, participating by Zoom, or bidding by phone.
  • Opening bids are visible
    The auction begins with a clearly displayed opening bid, setting a transparent starting point for all participants.
  • The leading bid is always clear
    At any moment, bidders know who is in the lead and where the bidding stands.
  • A non-rushed bidding progression
    Rather than fast or chanted bidding, the process allows time for bidders to consider each step before placing their next bid. Breaks are taken as needed.

This structure creates a calm, professional setting where bidders can make informed decisions without pressure.

ClearBid

Why This Matters for Landowners

When bidders feel comfortable and informed, they tend to stay engaged. Clear expectations and visible bidding help build trust in the process, which often leads to stronger participation throughout the auction.

For landowners, this approach helps ensure the final sale reflects true market demand, rather than a rushed or unclear outcome. The goal isn’t speed—it’s confidence, fairness, and clarity from start to finish.

Built From Experience

ClearBid was developed in-house based on our decades of experience conducting farmland auctions across Minnesota. It reflects what we’ve learned over time: that a transparent, well-paced process helps everyone involved feel confident in the result.

A Thoughtful Way to Bring Land to Market

Every property and every landowner situation is different. When an auction is the right fit, the way it’s conducted matters.

If you’re considering an auction and want to understand how this approach might apply to your land, having a clear picture of the process is often a helpful first step.

Auction Formats Designed Around Your Property

ClearBid allows us to structure an auction in a variety of ways, depending on the land and the goals of the seller. Common auction formats include:

  • Single Parcel – Offered as one tract
  • Multi-Parcel – Sold as individual tracts
  • Multi-Parcel with Combination – Bidders can pursue individual tracts or combinations
  • Choice Auction– The high bidder chooses which tract(s) to purchase

Each format serves a different purpose, and the right structure can have a meaningful impact on outcome.