A survey by the Observatory of Livestock in 2026 found that nine out of ten livestock farmers believe their farms are transferable, yet more than half have not taken any steps toward transferring their farms, and a third have not identified a successor. Victor Pénet, head of the Livestock Fund and coordinator of the Observatory, said that farm transfer is the third most important concern for farmers, after issues related to organization, working hours, and income. The survey highlights a gap between farmers' confidence in their ability to transfer their farms and the lack of actual progress in doing so. The study found that cattle producers are generally optimistic about the future of their farms. Across all age groups, 68% expressed optimism, and this number rises to 77% among those under 40, the highest level of optimism among young farmers in three years. Victor Pénet explained that this optimism fluctuates with economic conditions, with farmers more likely to continue their work during good times and more open to selling during difficult ones. Despite a significant number of farmers planning to stop beef production or change careers by 2035, only 4% intend to reduce their herd size. Most (38%) plan to maintain their current herd size, and 13% aim to increase it. These numbers are even higher among those under 40, with 63% planning to keep the same size and 28% wanting to grow it. The survey also found that both sellers and buyers agree on three key expectations for a farm transfer: profitability and income, a coherent and efficient system, and a balance between professional and personal life. Victor Pénet noted that there is a clear divide in how farmers value their farms. Sixty-nine percent prefer an economic evaluation, 17% favor patrimonial value, and 14% prefer market value. Sellers tend to focus on patrimonial value, while buyers are more interested in the farm's viability and potential. The purchase price of farms has been rising, often outpacing the income they generate. Other challenges include a lack of preparation and the complexity of the transfer process. Sellers usually begin the process 2 to 3 years before the deadline, far short of the 8 to 10 years recommended by experts. Finding a reliable successor is also a challenge, with only 33% of respondents having identified one. Concerns include the reliability of the successor (64%), agreement on terms (49%), and setting the sale price (58%). Victor Pénet emphasized the need to help sellers and buyers understand each other’s goals and find compromises. He noted that more people outside the agricultural sector are now involved in farm transfers, making initial contacts more difficult. Sellers often look for someone similar to themselves, and emotional issues, such as those related to the family home, can complicate the process. It is important to help sellers step back and create space for a new generation that may not want to live on the farm. The most common reasons for failed transfers include buyers backing out, difficulty in obtaining financing, or a desire to make major changes to the farm’s structure or organization. Disagreements over the purchase price are also frequent. Traditional financing methods are commonly used, but more innovative options, such as leasing equipment or livestock, are underutilized and should be promoted more widely. Most respondents want a farm with grouped land, a healthy herd, modern facilities, and a system that allows for a balance between work and personal life. The Livestock Fund will use these findings to develop strategies that help anticipate farm transfers, connect sellers and buyers, and improve methods for evaluating farm value.