Purchasing a farm is one of the most significant investments a person can make, it’s not just a financial decision, but a lifestyle commitment.

At CooperAitken, we understand the complexities and opportunities that come with purchasing rural property. With decades of experience supporting the rural sector, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. 

Why Buying a Farm Requires Expert Support 

Purchasing a farm involves a unique set of challenges: 

• Due diligence on land use, environmental compliance, and water rights  
• Financial structuring and funding arrangements  
• Profitability and forecasting to make sure the business is sustainable and financially well managed 
• Succession planning and ownership structures  
• Tax implications and GST considerations  
• Livestock valuation and tax treatment  
• Risk strategy including people, property and financial   
• Benchmarking and performance analysis  
• Collaboration with rural professionals 

That’s where CooperAitken comes in. 

How CooperAitken Supports You;

1. Strategic Financial Advice 
We help you assess the financial viability of your farm purchase. From budgeting and cash flow forecasting to liaising with banks and lenders, our team ensures you’re making a sound investment. Identify and work with key stakeholders. 

2. Structuring for Success 
Whether you’re buying as an individual, a trust, or a company, we’ll help you choose the right ownership structure to protect your assets, optimise tax outcomes, and support long-term goals.
Understand the tax implications of the purchase price allocation rules, in particular buildings, feed on hand, development and trees.  
What is the settlement date of the sale or purchase and what tax implications will this have? 

3. Due Diligence & Risk Management 
Our team works alongside your lawyer and real estate agent to review financial records, assess compliance risks, and ensure there are no hidden surprises. 

4. Tax, GST & Livestock Considerations 
Farm purchases often involve complex tax and GST rules including when livestock is involved. We can help you with: 

1. 1. Understand the Herd Scheme vs National Standard Cost (NSC) valuation methods and choose the most tax-efficient option  
   2. Manage livestock valuation elections correctly at the time of purchase  
   3. Navigate livestock transfers and valuation mismatches  
   4. Ensure GST is correctly applied to livestock and land components 

5. Benchmarking for Smarter Decisions

We offer our own in-house benchmarking services, giving you access to real-world data from farms across the region. This allows you to: 

• • Compare your potential farm’s performance against industry averages  
  • Identify areas for improvement and growth  
  • Set realistic financial and production targets  
  • Make informed decisions based on proven data 

6. Strong Relationships with Rural Professionals 
We work closely with a trusted network of rural professionals,  including banks, lawyers, real estate agents, and farm consultants. These relationships mean we can connect you with the right people at the right time, ensuring a smooth and coordinated farm purchase process. Our collaborative approach helps streamline communication, reduce delays, and provide you with a well-rounded support team. 

7. Succession & Long-Term Planning 
If your farm purchase is part of a broader family or succession plan, we’ll help you align your investment with your long-term goals, ensuring a smooth transition for future generations, as well as navigate sometimes complex associated person tax implications.

8. Integration with Industry Tools 
As a firm that integrates with platforms like Xero and Figured, we streamline your financial reporting and farm management, giving you real-time insights and peace of mind. 

Common Issues to Consider When Buying or Selling a Farm 
Whether you’re purchasing or selling a farm, there are several key considerations that can significantly impact the outcome: 

• Land Use & Zoning Restrictions: Ensure the land is zoned for your intended use and check for any environmental or council restrictions. 
• Water Rights & Access: Water is a critical asset. Confirm water consents, irrigation infrastructure, and compliance with regional council regulations. 
• Soil Quality & Environmental Compliance: Soil testing, nutrient management plans, and environmental compliance (e.g., freshwater regulations) are essential for sustainable operations.  
• Effluent and Nutrient management: check for effluent discharge consents and nutrient budgets. 
• Supply contracts: Milk processor agreements, grazing contracts and other operational commitments should be reviewed.  
• Stock Valuation & Transfer: Understand how livestock will be valued and transferred  and the tax implications of different valuation methods. 
• Infrastructure & Equipment: Assess the condition and value of farm buildings, fencing, effluent systems, and machinery included in the sale. 
• Healthy homes are farm houses compliant with healthy homes standards? 
• Staff & Employment Obligations: How will you manage the work on the farm, will you employ a new team or does the farm come with existing staff? Employment contracts and obligations must be reviewed and managed carefully. 
• Financial Performance History: Review past financials to understand profitability, debt levels, and potential for growth. 
• Succession or Exit Planning: For sellers, planning ahead ensures a smooth transition and maximises value. For buyers, understanding what your end goal is and working back from there on how best to achieve this.  

At CooperAitken, we help you navigate all these areas with confidence. 

We are more than accountants, we are your business advisors. If you’re considering buying or selling a farm, talk to us first. We’ll help you make informed decisions and set your farming future up for success. 

Contact us today to start your journey.