So you want to be a farmer? Ag lender Rene Johnson with Lake Ridge Bank recommends partnering up with an existing farm to learn the ropes. She says there's growing interest among nonfarm consumers to get involved in agriculture - some even exploring how to start their own farm business. However, it can be challenging to get a farm loan if you don't have farm experience. Johnson says if you fall into that category, there are steps you can take before applying for an ag business loan to improve your chances.