How Much Does a Section 180 Soil Fertility Report Cost?
At Soil Tax Guys, we believe the process should be simple, transparent, and low risk for farmland buyers.
One of the first questions we hear is:
“How much does a Section 180 report cost?”
The answer depends on the size of the property, but we don’t ask clients to commit to a full report without first determining whether there’s likely to be meaningful value.
That’s why our process starts with actual soil test data.
Step 1: Soil Testing and a Complimentary Value Estimate
Every Section 180 project begins with a soil test.
You have two options:
- We can collect the soil samples for you, or
- You can provide your own soil test results, provided they accurately represent the property at or near the time of purchase.
Once the laboratory results are available, our agronomists analyze the data and prepare a complimentary estimate of the potential soil fertility value based on the actual soil test results.
This isn’t a guess or a generic estimate. It’s based on the measured nutrient levels from your farm.
Our goal is to answer one simple question:
“Is there likely enough value here to justify moving forward?”
If the answer is no, we’ll tell you.
Step 2: Official Section 180 Opinion of Value
If the preliminary estimate indicates there is meaningful value for the client, we’ll prepare a comprehensive Section 180 Opinion of Value Report.
The report includes:
- Professional agronomic analysis.
- Soil fertility interpretation.
- Nutrient valuation.
- Supporting calculations and documentation.
- A detailed report designed for you and your CPA or tax advisor.
This is the official report that supports your Section 180 deduction.
Flat-Fee Pricing
Once you decide to move forward with the official report, our pricing is a flat per acre fee.
We do not charge:
- A percentage of your tax savings.
- A percentage of your deduction.
- A success fee based on your tax bracket.
Whether your deduction is worth $75,000 or $750,000, our compensation is based on the professional work we perform—not the amount of tax you save.
Why We Work This Way
We believe clients should know whether a meaningful opportunity exists before paying for a full valuation.
Starting with a soil test and a complimentary value estimate allows everyone to make an informed decision.
If the opportunity is significant, we move forward.
If it isn’t, we’ll tell you honestly.
