The Lay of the Land Conference brings together landowners, investors, and industry professionals to share valuable networking and market insights. This year's event in Lakeland, Florida, was a powerful reminder of why understanding land values, legislative developments, and investment trends is critical for anyone involved in Florida’s land market.
Tyler Davis, President of Saunders Real Estate, led a discussion on policy and tax updates impacting landowners.
Attendees gained exclusive access to the latest Lay of the Land Florida Market Report, which presents a thorough analysis of verified sales data across various land types, including ranches, farms, citrus groves, recreational land, timber tracts, residential development, and transitional land. This comprehensive report provides key insights into investment trends and economic factors shaping land values over the past year, equipping landowners and investors with the knowledge needed to identify market shifts and capitalize on new opportunities.
DOWNLOAD OUR LAY OF THE LAND MARKET REPORT
The Lay of the Land Conference thrives thanks to our strategic partners, whose support ensures expert insights, market data, and valuable networking for attendees each year. This year's event featured expert-led discussions covering topics such as conservation funding, water resource management, Florida’s agricultural sectors, land use strategies, and market forecasts—all designed to help landowners make informed decisions in an evolving landscape. Select conference resources are now available for download or streaming, offering continued access to key insights shared at the event.
Key Legislative & Political Insights
Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson shared key updates on policy changes, agricultural challenges, and legislative efforts affecting landowners, emphasizing the importance of agriculture, conservation, and responsible land use planning. Justin Sayfie with Ballard Partners expanded on these themes with a political outlook on state and federal policy trends, legislative priorities, and recent developments that could impact land ownership and investment. Ben Friedman with Duke Energy provided an economic outlook, offering insights into market forces and financial trends shaping the real estate industry. These, along with many more expert panels, gave attendees a comprehensive understanding of the legislative, political, and economic factors influencing the Florida land market.
Building Lasting Connections
Beyond the educational sessions, the heart of the Lay of the Land Conference lies in the relationships built. Landowners, investors, and professionals had the opportunity to connect, exchange ideas, and forge partnerships in an environment where shared experiences and insights drive success. Whether during panel discussions or informal networking, attendees left with not only valuable knowledge but also lasting connections within the land industry.
Trent Saunders, Senior Advisor at Saunders Real Estate, moderates the Florida agriculture panel, featuring industry experts and authorities specializing in various fields of farming and forestry.
Expanding Our Reach
In addition to our flagship Florida event, we’re excited to host our Lay of the Land Conference in both Georgia and Arkansas later this year. These events will provide valuable market insights, expert analysis, and networking opportunities tailored to local landowners and investors in each region. Dates and locations are coming soon, so stay tuned for more details on how you can be part of these exclusive gatherings.
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Celebrating Our Partners
The success of the Lay of the Land Florida Conference wouldn’t be possible without the support of our strategic partners. Their contributions help us provide attendees with high-quality programming, expert insights, and invaluable networking opportunities year after year. We appreciate their commitment to Florida’s land industry and encourage you to leverage their resources for whatever needs you may have.
Moving Forward
As we look ahead to future events, we remain committed to delivering the most trusted land market insights and fostering meaningful connections within the industry. Thank you to everyone who joined us in 2025, and we look forward to seeing you next year.
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For more information about the Lay of the Land Florida Conference and to access the Lay of the Land Florida Market Report, please visit our website. Listen to our collection of recorded breakout sessions on the In Our Expert Opinion Real Estate Podcast. Select presentation slides and other conference resources are now available for download.