Why Property Values Are Changing in McIntosh County in 2026

By Denise Rohweder, Broker/Owner Northern Elements Real Estate LLC

Over the past few weeks, many McIntosh County property owners have begun receiving notices showing changes in their property valuations for 2026. As a local real estate broker, I have received numerous questions about why some residential properties increased in value while some agricultural properties saw little change or even slight declines.

The answer comes down to market activity.

Residential Property Values Continue to Rise

Residential property values throughout McIntosh County have generally increased due to strong sales activity over the past several years. Assessors are required to consider actual market sales when determining property values. When homes consistently sell at higher prices, assessed values typically follow.

Although our local market remains smaller than larger metropolitan areas, recent residential sales have demonstrated that buyers continue to see value in rural North Dakota communities. Limited housing inventory, increased interest in small-town living, and steady buyer demand have contributed to stronger residential sale prices.

Property valuations are based on market evidence, and recent sales indicate that residential properties in many areas of McIntosh County are worth more today than they were several years ago. As a result, many homeowners are seeing higher true and full values reflected on their assessment notices.

Agricultural Land Saw a Different Trend

Agricultural property experienced a somewhat different market environment during the past year.

While North Dakota farmland values have generally remained strong over the long term, the agricultural market faced headwinds during the winter of 2025-2026. Higher borrowing costs and softer commodity prices caused some buyers to become more cautious, resulting in fewer aggressive bids on agricultural land. Recent reports from agricultural lenders noted that benchmark farmland values in North Dakota were generally stable entering 2026, with some areas experiencing modest declines from recent highs.

This does not necessarily mean agricultural land has lost significant value. Rather, the pace of appreciation slowed compared to the rapid increases seen over the previous several years. In some instances, local sales data supported slight downward adjustments in taxable values for agricultural property.

How Property Values Are Determined

One common misconception is that local governments simply decide to raise property values. In reality, North Dakota law requires assessors to estimate a property's true and full value based on market conditions and sales evidence. Residential taxable values are calculated from a percentage of the property's true and full value, while agricultural property follows a separate valuation process established under state law.

As markets change, valuations change as well.

Higher Value Does Not Always Mean Higher Taxes

Another important point is that property value and property taxes are not exactly the same thing.

Property taxes are influenced by multiple factors, including local budgets, mill levies, state property tax credits, and legislative changes. In 2026, North Dakota homeowners also continue to benefit from the state's expanded Primary Residence Credit program, which may reduce the tax burden for qualifying homeowners.

For that reason, an increase in assessed value does not automatically translate into an equal increase in property taxes.

Looking Ahead

As someone who watches the local market every day, I believe McIntosh County continues to offer excellent value compared to many other areas of North Dakota. Residential demand remains healthy, and agricultural land continues to be supported by the long-term strength of our farming economy.

Markets naturally move in cycles. Residential property values are currently benefiting from recent sales activity, while agricultural land is experiencing a period of stabilization after several years of substantial growth.

If you have questions about your property's value, recent sales in your area, or what current market conditions mean for buying or selling real estate, I would be happy to visit with you.

Denise Rohweder

Broker/OwnerNorthern Elements Real Estate LLC

701-321-0162