Family Legacy to Record-Breaking Sale

For more than 80 years, the Barnhart farm in Clear Spring, Maryland, was more than land—it was the heart of a family’s life and livelihood. Home to generations of dairy farming, it held decades of memories, hard work, and love of the land. When it came time to let go, the decision wasn’t easy.

Wayne Barnhart and his family knew they needed to choose the right way—and team—to sell their farm. 

They had worked with Hurley Real Estate & Auctions before on a personal property sale for a relative and remembered the professionalism and results. After meeting with the Hurley team and discussing options, they decided an auction was the best way to reach the widest pool of qualified buyers and maximize the farm’s value.

Before the sale, the Barnharts received an attractive offer—one that many sellers might have taken. 

But they trusted the auction process and the Hurley marketing strategy. 

On auction day, more than 100 people attended, and over 15 serious bidders competed for the property. The competitive energy in the crowd pushed the final price to more than double the pre-auction offer.

Most of their 208± acre farm is preserved for agriculture, ensuring it will be farmed for generations to come—a fact that brought the Barnharts peace of mind along with the financial success.

“They know where to advertise, to reach the most people for what you’re selling,” Wayne shared. “Even if they’re out of town, they can bid on their phone. The outreach is amazing. Don’t be afraid of an auction—I’d do it again if I had another place.”

For the Barnharts, the sale marked the close of one chapter and the start of another—made sweeter by knowing they honored their family legacy while securing an incredible result.

If you’re considering selling a farm, or piece of land, the Barnhart story is proof: with the right team, an auction can deliver beyond expectations.

Listen to Wayne share his story below: